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The Philadelphia Eagles will have a far different look when they step on the field for the 2024 NFL season.
Star center Jason Kelce brought the entire Philadelphia metro area to tears with his emotional retirement speech.
Now, just six days later, superstar defensive tackle Fletcher Cox has announced that he has also opted to call an end to a terrific career.
THANK YOU, PHILLY! pic.twitter.com/vJcyeCndUE
— fletcher cox (@fcoxx_91) March 10, 2024
“To Eagles fans everywhere – there is not a fan base in all of sports that is as passionate as you. You are intense and demanding, but it’s because of how much you care. After spending my career here, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way,” Cox said in a statement announcing his retirement. ” I’ll never forget the feeling of running out of the tunnel at Lincoln Financial Field, or the roar of the crowd after making a big play. One of the proudest moments of my life was holding up that Lombardi Trophy at the Rocky steps while looking out into the sea of fans. It was breathtaking to realize what we were able to accomplish and how much it meant to so many.”
Philadelphia selected Cox with the 12th pick in the 2012 NFL draft and he quickly became an impact player. The Mississippi State product made his first Pro Bowl in 2015, beginning a run of six consecutive appearances.
He anchored one of the top defenses in the league when the Eagles won Super Bowl LII in 2018. That was also the first year that he served as a team captain, a title he’s held each year since.
“After much reflection, I have made the decision to retire from the game of football,” Cox said, wrapping up his statement. “I gave everything I had to this team and to this city. I don’t know what’s next for me, but I do know that I’m forever grateful for my time here in Philadelphia and with the Eagles organization.”