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With the 2024 NFL season ending, the futures of aging players are constantly questioned. Jason Kelce’s contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles since being drafted by them in 2011 have only increased over the years. The 36-year-old center for the Eagles is nearing his thirteenth season as a pro footballer, with questions around his future becoming even more prominent. To answer these, he has announced a press conference on Monday afternoon with the expectation that he might announce his future details soon.

Jason Kelce is the fifth center in NFL history with at least six All-Pro selections. He has started and played in 193 games over his 13 seasons. Kelce’s announcements could cast a shadow of change on the Eagles if he confirms his retirement. While we delve deeper into what his conference could be about, here are the top 5 centers in NFL history, per Gil Brandt.

5. Bulldog Turner

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Clyde Douglas “Bulldog” Turner, the iconic Chicago Bears center, played from 1040 to 1952, winning 4 NFL championships in his time. He has been voted for the Pro Bowl four times with a first-team all-pro seven times. Turner was known for his toughness, intelligence, and versatility.

He played during the 1940s and was a key player for the Bears during their dominant years, which included multiple NFL championships. He was also enshrined in the NFL Hall Of Fame in 1966 for his performances. He was a beloved figure in Chicago and remained connected with the franchise in his later years as well.

4. Dwight Stephenson

Dwight Stephenson played for the Miami Dolphins from 1980-1987. He was voted in the All-Decades team of the 1980s. He was also voted to the Pro Bowl and the First Team All-Pro four times.

Despite his relatively short career due to injury, Stephenson’s impact on the game was significant, earning him recognition as one of the all-time greats at his position. While he started 87 of his 114 NFL games, he was enshrined into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1998 for his contributions.

3. Mel Hein

Mel Hein was a center for the New York Jets from 1931-1945. He was a two-time NFL champion and was voted for the Pro Bowl four times. Hein was also the NFL MVP in 1938 and voted to the first team all-pro four times.

Hein was integral to the Giants’ success during the 1930s and 1940s, earning numerous accolades and distinctions throughout his career. He has also been enshrined into the NFL Hall of Fame 1963 for his contributions.

2. Chuck Bednarik

Chuck Bednarik, often known as‘ Concrete Charlie’ played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1949 to 1962. He was a dominant player, winning two NFLs, and was voted to the Pro Bowl eight times.

He was known for his toughness and durability, earning numerous accolades throughout his career. Bednarik also made the team of the decade in the 1950s. His achievements were enough to land him in the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967. He is regarded as one of the greatest players in NFL history and is often referred to as one of the last faithful “60-minute men” in football.

1. Jim Otto

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The Oakland Raiders center played from 1960-1974, establishing himself as one of the best players ever. He won the 1967 AFL and was voted for 12 Pro Bowls. He was also voted to the first team all-pro ten times, setting himself in a league of his own. His number 00 jersey was retired by the Raiders, making him one of only a few players in NFL history to wear the number.

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Otto played over 200 professional games and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980. After retiring from football, Otto struggled with health issues related to the physical toll of playing football. He underwent numerous surgeries, including multiple knee replacements.

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