Kelce’s powerful address is lighting up their feed, promising to ignite their drive and focus. You won’t believe the raw intensity and passion in his words—it’s the ultimate rallying cry for the Eagles. Dive into the speech that’s already buzzing as the most electrifying pre-season hype

The 36-year-old was asked to speak in front of his former team ahead of their first season since his retirement earlier this year.

On Monday, the team posted a snippet from Kelce’s speech with creatively placed subtitles, background music, and b-roll of his highlights.

Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence — talent will not,’ Kelce told the team.

‘I was a walk-on coming out of high school. They told me I wasn’t good enough. So I got drafted and everyone said I was too small, I didn’t have what it takes.’

The University of Cincinnati alum grinded his way to earning the starting spot after getting drafted by the Eagles in 2011. After 13, seasons, he became a beloved figure in Philadelphia, a Super Bowl champion, and arguably one of the best centers in American football history.

After a successful career, Kelce hung up his cleats in March. However, he told PEOPLE in June that he had considered calling it quits for a while.

‘I’ll be very honest, the last four years I’ve wanted to retire at the end of seasons,’ Kelce said. ‘The reality is it’s really hard to get there. And even after we lost the Super Bowl, I wanted to come back and play for another Super Bowl.

But imagining another 17 games on top of playoffs and coming back was very difficult to envision being able to do.’

While his days on the field are in the rearview, Kelce remains close to the game as he gears up to join ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown as a broadcaster.

Nevertheless, Kelce remained adamant that athletes should keep striving for excellence, as seen on his speech.