Jason Kelce's Retirement Impact on the Eagles: A Perspective from Lane Johnson

Lane Johnson, Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle, weighs in on the departure of Jason Kelce and its potential effect on the team's chemistry and performance in the upcoming season.

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson recently spoke about the retirement of former center Jason Kelce and its impact on the team's upcoming season. "Jason was the heart and soul of our offense," Johnson said. "He was the leader, the guy who always kept us motivated and together."

Jason Kelce's Retirement Impact on the Eagles: A Perspective from Lane Johnson

Kelce played 12 seasons for the Eagles, earning five Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring in 2018. He announced his retirement in January after spending his entire career with Philadelphia.

Johnson believes Kelce's absence will be felt both on and off the field. "He was a great teammate and a great friend," Johnson said. "I'm going to miss him out there, but I know he's going to be successful in whatever he does next."

Jason Kelce's Retirement Impact on the Eagles: A Perspective from Lane Johnson

In addition to his on-field contributions, Kelce was also known for his leadership and camaraderie with his teammates. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said Kelce was "a great mentor" and that he "helped me become the player I am today."

Head coach Nick Sirianni also praised Kelce's character and leadership. "Jason was a great player and a great leader for our team," Sirianni said. "He will be missed."

Jason Kelce's Retirement Impact on the Eagles: A Perspective from Lane Johnson

While Kelce's retirement is a significant loss for the Eagles, Johnson believes the team can still succeed without him. "We have a lot of talent on this team," Johnson said. "We're going to miss Jason, but I know we can still win without him."

The Eagles will start their season on September 11 against the Detroit Lions. It will be the team's first game without Kelce since 2010.

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In a separate interview, former Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers dietitian Leslie Bonci commented on Kelce's post-retirement diet and the potential impact on his health and fitness.

Bonci noted that Kelce's recent partnership with Buffalo Wild Wings and the creation of his "Kelce's Picks" menu, which includes a triple bacon cheeseburger and 10 traditional wings with Buffalo Bacon sauce, is not an ideal meal plan for someone aspiring to maintain an athletic physique or return to playing professional football.

According to Bonci, the combination of high fat content, low carbohydrate content, and excessive sodium could lead to digestive distress, impaired recovery after exercise, and increased thirst.

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Despite the indulgences of "Kelce's Picks," Kelce has stated that his weight has decreased since retiring, a common trend among former offensive linemen. In an interview with GQ, Kelce revealed that he had already lost "almost 20 pounds" and aimed to lose another 20. This weight loss has reportedly improved his back and knee health.

Bonci believes that maintaining a lighter weight could make an NFL return even less likely for Kelce. Offensive linemen rely heavily on carrying a consistent heavy weight while maintaining muscle density, agility, and speed. As such, many retired offensive linemen reduce their calorie intake and lose weight to achieve a more normal size.

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Bonci's advice to offensive linemen like Kelce is to focus on consuming more produce, avoiding sports drinks and alcohol, and adhering to a balanced diet that supports their fitness goals.