Does Jason Kelce have a second career in mind?
It’s Opening Week in Philadelphia, and the Phillies welcomed some very special visitors to send out the first pitch on Saturday.
As the Fightin’ Phils begin the second game of their three-game home series against the NL East rival Braves, recently retired Eagles Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox take the mound to help kick off the new season.
Both former football stars had decent first pitches. Cox delivered a beautiful strike, while Kelce’s was slightly low and outside, but still more than adequate.
Kelce formally announced his retirement from the NFL earlier this month, following 13 seasons as the Eagles’ center. Jason said at his retirement press conference,
“I’ve been asked many times why did I choose football — what drew me to the game — and I never have an answer that gets it right,” “The best way I could explain it is what draws you to your favorite song … your favorite book. It’s what it makes you feel. The seriousness of it. The intensity of it.”
“Stepping on the field was the most alive and free I had ever felt. There was a visceral feeling with football, unlike any sport. The hairs on my arms would stand up. I could hit somebody, run around like a crazed lunatic and then get told, ‘Good job,'” the 36-year-old said. “I love football.”
The former sixth-round pick departs the game as a Super Bowl champion, seven-time Pro Bowler, and six-time first-team All-Pro.