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Jason Kelce Reacts to Eagles' Unexpected Coaching Development
Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Jason Kelce spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles. During his time with the team, Kelce firmly established himself as one of the most important players on the roster. By the time he retired in 2024, he had cemented himself as one of the greatest centers in NFL history.

On Wednesday, Kelce leared about some unexpected news. The four-time All-Pro first-team center, along with the rest of the Philly faithful, found out about Jeff Stoutland’s decision to leave the Eagles.

Stoutland joined the Eagles in 2013 and has since served as the team’s offensive line coach. On Wednesday, the 63-year-old announced his decision to part ways with the team.

Jeff Stoutland - Philadelphia eagles© Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Stoutland made his announcement via social media. The veteran coach, however, did not reveal why he decided to leave after spending the past 13 seasons with the team.

Stoutland joined the Eagles ahead of Kelce’s third season with the team. They spent 10 years together. Stoutland played a pivotal role in Kelce’s development — a fact that the Super Bowl-winning center himself acknowledges.

Kelce took to social media to share his reaction to the unexpected turn of events in Philadelphia.

“There is absolutely no one I credit more with the career I had than Jeff Stoutland,” Kelce posted on X. “The consistent passion and his eagerness to teach pushed my teammates, me, and our room to amazing success.

“More importantly, we became incredibly close as people. It was more than just coaching and teaching, it was his presence and sense of urgency that was unaccepting of mediocrity and potential left behind. He will undoubtedly be missed inside the building, and everyone that played for him.

“I am incredible grateful to have played for Stout, 1 of 1 coach and person. I love you coach.”

Stoutland’s departure drew an emotional reaction from Kelce. The same can be said for most Eagles fans, who consider Stoutland to be a fixture in the organization.

The Eagles made some major changes in the coaching staff after their wild card exit in the NFL playoffs. This included firing offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, who has since been replaced by Sean Mannion. Stoutland had worked with Patullo since the latter joined Philly in 2021.

The Eagles will now have to find Stoutland’s successor. Whoever ends up taking his place will have some big shoes to fill.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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