Fletcher Cox’s locker was almost empty after the Eagles’ last game. Sure, it’s easy to say you shouldn’t read too much into these things. I mean, just a few lockers down, Jason Kelce’s was overflowing with boxes and gear. But this time, it felt different. It seemed like a sign that Cox wasn’t planning on coming back. And true enough, by Sunday, he made it official. He’s hanging up his cleats, retiring after an entire career with the Eagles since being picked 12th overall in 2012.

Interestingly, Cox’s retirement comes soon after that of his former teammate Kelce’s own exit from the game. Kelce had nothing but high regard for Cox and he made it known publicly in the latest episode of the New Heights podcast.

Jason Kelce showers high praise on Fletcher

Jason said of his teammate, “I mean, Fletcher is the epitome of what it is to be like, an Eagle. Like if you were to take like the ideal Eagle. In my opinion, it’s Fletcher Cox,” that’s probably the best compliment anyone could have ever paid him.

So, what makes Fletcher the embodiment of the Eagles? It’s all about the mindset. It’s not just that he’s skilled on the field. He’s got this toughness about him, this grit. He’s the kind of player who, in his prime, would just dominate physically. And everyone in the locker room loved him too! “Outstanding teammate. A guy that was very beloved in the organization by almost everybody. Never heard anybody say a bad thing about the man you know.”

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Kelce, with his six 1st-team All-Pros and seven Pro Bowls, is a legend. He’s widely regarded as the top center of his time and easily ranks among the all-time greats. Cox’s track record may not be as packed, but it’s nothing to dismiss either. Is it Hall of Fame worthy? Let’s dive in.

Just a matter of time before Cox makes it to Canton

The big feather in Cox’s cap is making the All-Decade team for the 2010s. Hall of Fame voters love seeing players who’ve been consistently top-notch over the years. Then, consider his six Pro Bowls. That’s a significant achievement, putting him in a select group of 21 inside linemen who’ve done the same. Among those who are Hall of Fame eligible, most are already in. How about making six Pro Bowls consecutively? Cox is one of only 12 interior linemen to pull that off, and every single one of the others is in the Hall of Fame.

And then there are his 70 sacks. Since “sacks” became an official stat, that ranks him 10th among inside linemen over four decades. Most with similar numbers who are Hall of Fame eligible have already been inducted. Cox’s team success matters too. He’s got a Super Bowl ring and has made the playoffs in seven out of his 12 seasons.

In terms of production, consistency, longevity, honors, and team success, Cox is, no doubt, Hall of Fame material!