In the same month former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce called it quits on a legendary career, Philly nabbed top running back Saquon Barkley in free agency.
That made the newly-retired Kelce feel some type of way, and he shared his honest reaction to the Barkley signing on Wednesday’s episode of New Heights.
The Philadelphia legend told his brother, Travis Kelce, that everyone asked him the same question after the Barkley news broke—namely, whether he was sure he wanted to retire. Jason Kelce maintained he was “positive” about hanging up his cleats for good, but he did reveal some residual regrets.
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“A little bit upset Howie [Roseman] waited ‘til I retired to make a move like this, but you know, it’s fine,” Kelce said. “This is what I’m regretting. I knew when I retired that I was going to miss an outstanding season for the Philadelphia Eagles. And it sucks, it really does. I want to be a part of this so bad, I wish I could.”
The Eagles signed Saquon and everybody started asking Jason the same question ... 👀
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Kelce added that he thought Barkley was entering an ideal situation in Philadelphia.
“I’m happy for Saquon,” continued Kelce. “You’re coming to a team that has had a legitimate offensive line established for a very long time, coming to a coach who’s been there for a long time, and they’ve had proven success with nearly every running back.”
After six years with the New York Giants, Barkley agreed to a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the NFC East-rival Eagles and will replace D’Andre Swift as Philly’s top back. Despite Kelce’s complaints about the unfortunate timing of Barkley’s signing, he’s still fired up to witness the 27-year-old star break ankles in Kelly green this upcoming season.
Kelce said, “Hey, I’m a Philadelphian. I get to watch it and celebrate it just like everybody else. So I’m excited for that because it’s going to be damn good.”