Jason Kelce surprises by announcing his return to the NFL: “It turns out, it was a short retirement”

The former Eagles center signed a million-dollar contract as an analyst for the ESPN network.

The multi-year agreement will see Kelce join “Monday Night Countdown,” providing analysis in the buildup to “Monday Night Football” games. He will also be a part of ESPN’s coverage of the wild card and divisional round playoff games, as well as the Super Bowl. His first Super Bowl with ESPN will be Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles.

Turns out, it was a short retirement! I’m excited to join ESPN, and particularly the Monday Night Countdown team,”Kelce said in a statement. “ESPN was a consistent presence in our household growing up and the network helped shape who I am and my love of all sports,” he stated.

The former Eagle didn’t hide his joy: “To now appear on that same screen is a full circle moment. And, I mean it’s freaking Monday Night Football! and I’m ready for some football.”

Kelce was one of the most wanted by the networks

Kelce had several options before ultimately choosing ESPN. According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, he had interest from NBC, CBS, and Amazon. His decision to join ESPN comes as no surprise given his charisma and honesty, both of which have endeared him to fans and made him a natural fit for television.

This isn’t Kelce’s first venture into media. He co-hosts the popular podcast “New Heights” with his brother, Travis Kelce, who has also been busy off the field.

Travis recently landed his first major acting role in the Ryan Murphy horror drama show “Grotesquerie,” set to premiere on FX in the fall. He will also host “Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity” for Amazon Prime Video.

Kelce’s new role at ESPN is sure to be a hit with fans, as he brings his unique perspective and insights to one of the biggest platforms in sports media.