Why No One Wears No. 62 in Philadelphia: Honoring Jason Kelce’s Legacy

When the Philadelphia Eagles released their official 2025 jersey numbers, fans quickly noticed something missing — the number 62. The jersey once worn by legendary center Jason Kelce was nowhere to be found. Not assigned to a rookie. Not claimed by a veteran. Just… left empty.

And for good reason.

Jason Kelce, who announced his retirement in early 2024 after 13 unforgettable seasons, isn’t just one of the greatest players in Eagles history — he is Philadelphia. From his Super Bowl parade speech in a Mummers outfit to his unmatched toughness on the field, Kelce embodied the heart, grit, and spirit of the city.

The decision to leave No. 62 unassigned is not an oversight. It’s a quiet but powerful tribute. Though the team has not officially retired the number (yet), this symbolic gesture speaks volumes. In an organization steeped in tradition, leaving Kelce’s number untouched sends a message: some legacies deserve breathing room before their next chapter.

Players and coaches have reportedly expressed unanimous respect for the choice. “You don’t just hand out 62,” one staff member said anonymously. “That number still echoes in the building.”

Kelce’s presence continues to be felt in the locker room — not just through stories or plaques, but in the way younger players carry themselves. Rookie center Drew Kendall, drafted this year, wears No. 66. When asked about the unspoken vacancy at 62, he replied: “That number belongs to a legend. I wouldn’t dare touch it.”

The Eagles organization is expected to officially retire Jason Kelce’s No. 62 in the coming seasons, likely during a prime-time home game where fans can properly honor the man who anchored their line for over a decade. Until then, the jersey will remain absent — a silent nod to a player who never asked for recognition but earned it every single snap.

In Philadelphia, numbers carry weight. And No. 62? It carries history, pride, and the spirit of a city that never forgets its heroes.