Shaven Jalen Hurts congratulates Jason Kelce on retirement

Shaven Jalen Hurts congratulates Jason Kelce on retirement

In a tearful farewell on Monday, Jason Kelce announced his retirement from the NFL after 13 seasons as the center for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Among the well-wishers for Kelce on his retirement was the Eagles’ current quarterback, Jalen Hurts, who shared his message on this week’s “New Heights” podcast, which Kelce hosts with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.

“There are three words that come to my mind when I think of you – passion, legacy and underdog,” Hurts said. “It’s been a long, great ride. And I’ve enjoyed every moment that we’ve been able to share. …

“I just want to congratulate you on your retirement. Good luck to you in whatever is next to come. I know you’ll be great at it.”

Some fans took note of what wasn’t in the video – Hurts’ goatee.

The missing facial hair came to wider attention on Thursday via a photo shared on social media from a visit by Hurts to the dentist, prompting a variety of reactions that got the former Alabama standout’s name trending on X.

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Hurts and Kelce were teammates for four seasons. Kelce was a Pro Bowler in all of them and a first-team All-Pro selection in three.

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Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter at @AMarkG1.