Eagles Lineman Doesn't Expect Jason Kelce To Return Next Season

We may have seen the last of Jason Kelce, 36, in the NFL — just ask Philadelphia Eagles teammate Jordan Mailata.

Mailata — a hulking offensive lineman with the voice of an angel — appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia this week and said there's "no shot" Kelce returns for the 2024-25 season.

Eagles center Jason Kelce seemed to downplay reports that he told the team he was retiring after their loss to the Buccaneers. (Getty Images)

Since Kelce played his final snap on Jan. 15 (losing to the Buccaneers in the playoffs), news of Kelce's potential retirement has teetered between ‘yes’ and ‘no’ so many times you'd think Brett Favre is back in the league.

According to Mailata, after watching Jason Kelce crush cans of beer and party with his brother Travis (heard of him?) en route to another Chiefs championship, there's no way Big Jason's coming back. 

"There’s no shot," Mailata shared. 

Hearing it from Mailata's mouth adds real skepticism surrounding Jason Kelce's status, considering they recorded a Christmas album together, which is a big deal.

Orchard Park, NY - Jason Kelce reacts after the Kansas City Chiefs score against the Buffalo Bills during the first half of the 2024 AFC divisional round game at Highmark Stadium in January. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Upon losing to the Bucs, Jason Kelce walked off the Raymond James with tears in his eyes, seemingly expecting the playoff loss to be his final game in an Eagles uniform.

After 13 seasons, Jason is still leaving the door open for a return. But is it all smoke?

Mailata added, "You’re telling me he’s going shirts off in the games, gambling in the casinos, he’s coming back? No way. He’s having too much fun.

"He’s out there living his life. And I’m going to miss him for sure, man. This has been the greatest six years of my life for sure, being here in the NFL and getting to meet people like Jason Kelce."

(Will Jason Kelce return for one more season? Let us know your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com.)

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