Jason Kelce hasn’t retired for a month without feeling some sorrow over the Philadelphia Eagles’ excellent free agency moves this year, particularly the agreed-upon deal for Saquon Barkley. 

On the most recent episode of Kelce’s “New Heights” podcast with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, the now-former Eagles center acknowledged having some contradictory thoughts after GM Howie Roseman agreed to a three-year contract with Barkley worth a maximum of $46.76 million. 

“Saquon Barkley signs with Philadelphia. How about this? A significant signing for Philadelphia. And I am glad for Saquon. I’m not trying to be negative, but you’re joining a team that has had a legitimate offensive line for a very long time.”

Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after a wild-card playoff game versus the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on January 15, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. (Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images).

Kelce also mentioned how run game coordinator Jeff Stoutland, the Eagles’ longest-tenured coach, will undoubtedly help Barkley adjust to his new team fast. 

But when Travis mentioned how many offensive players are Pro Bowlers, which should give the Eagles another strong shot at a Super Bowl run, Jason couldn’t stop himself from thinking about it. 

“I could not be more bullish,” he remarked. “We discussed it last week, and this is what I’m regretting. When I retired, I realised I was going to miss an outstanding season with the Philadelphia Eagles. It truly sucks. I want to be a part of this so badly. “I wish I could.”

Following Barkley’s signing, Eagles supporters took to social media to encourage Kelce to return to the building and play at least one more year. 

“Social media has been constantly asking, ‘Jason, are you sure you want to retire?’ I say, ‘Yeah, fairly positive.’ Even though he was furious, Howie [Roseman] waited until I retired to make this move! But that’s fine. “It’ll turn out great,” he remarked.

Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants plays against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on December 11, 2023, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Jim McIsaac / Getty Images)

Kelce is satisfied with his decision, which has been years in the making. He considered retiring earlier, but following a poor end to the 2023 season, he decided it was time to put away the pads and finger tape. 

As of now, it’s been an exciting start to the new season in Philadelphia, which has also added explosive edge rusher Bryce Huff, re-signed Brandon Graham for another season, and reunited with safety C.J Gardner-Johnson. 

Kelce may not be on the pitch anymore, but he will always be a fan of the only side he has ever played for.