Fletcher Cox follows Jason Kelce out the door as the Eagles legend, who won Super Bowl LII with the team, announces he’s retiring from the NFL after 12 seasons in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, the most decorated player at that position in franchise history, announced his retirement.

The 33-year-old ended his career after 12 seasons in Philadelphia, where he won Super Bowl LII with the team.

It comes as the Eagles will have to find a replacement for Jason Kelce on the offensive line after the center announced his retirement last week.

“Eagles fans, April 26, 2012 was a special day that changed my life forever when Andy Reid called me to tell me he would be drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles,” Cox said in a lengthy statement.

‘I fulfilled my lifelong dream by reaching the NFL. But what I didn’t know at the time was what a great honor and privilege it would be to represent the city of Philadelphia and the Eagles organization for the next 12 seasons.

After thanking senior management, coaches, his parents and even the offensive line, the statement continued: “To Eagles fans everywhere: There is no fan base in all of sports that is as passionate as you. “.

‘You are intense and demanding, but that’s because you care so much. After spending my career here, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

‘I’ll never forget the feeling of running out of the Lincoln Financial Field tunnel or the roar of the crowd after making a big play.

“One of the proudest moments of my life was holding the Lombardi Trophy at Rocky Steps while looking out at the sea of ​​fans. It was amazing to realize what we were able to achieve and how much it meant to so many people.

‘Growing up in Yazoo City, Mississippi, there aren’t many athletes who have the opportunity to compete at the professional level, let alone dream of becoming world champions.

‘I am proud to represent my hometown, the state of Mississippi and Mississippi State University. But Philadelphia has been my home for the past 12 years and will always hold a special place in my heart.

‘After much reflection, I have made the decision to retire from football. I gave everything I had to this team and this city. I don’t know what’s next for me, but I do know that I will be forever grateful for my time here in Philadelphia and with the Eagles organization. Go birds!’

Eagles president Jeffrey Lurie said, in part, “What made Fletcher truly special is that his influence extends even further behind the scenes. The six-time team captain was a key figure in establishing a culture championship in our building.

Cox is a four-time All-Pro selection, six-time Pro-Bowler and won Super Bowl LII with Philadelphia.

In 12 seasons, Cox had the most games played by an Eagles manager and is fifth in sacks.

“As unpleasant as he was on the field, he was a master of his craft and at the same time served as an older brother and mentor to so many young players over the years. He had enormous respect for the game of football and the legacy it he would one day leave behind, and that was reflected in the way he set the standard every day, whether on the practice field or in the locker room.

‘That standard will endure for many years to come thanks to his leadership and the respect he earned from everyone in the building.

“We are incredibly grateful for everything he gave to our organization and the city of Philadelphia over the years, and we wish him all the best in his future.”

Cox retires as the most decorated defensive end in Eagles history. He was named to the All-Pro first team in 2018 and was named to the All-Pro second team three times.

He is a six-time Pro-Bowler and was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 2010s.

Cox’s 70 career quarterback sacks rank fifth in Eagles history and his 188 regular-season games are the most among Philadelphia players.