How One Emerging Center Is Earning Trust in Post-Kelce Philadelphia

The transition from a legend is never easy—especially when that legend is Jason Kelce. For more than a decade, Kelce wasn’t just the anchor of the Eagles’ offensive line. He was the voice, the identity, the pulse of Philadelphia football. When he retired after hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the 2024 season, it marked the end of an era. But in his place, a quieter force is starting to take hold.

Cam Jurgens isn’t trying to be Jason Kelce—and that may be his greatest strength.

Thrust into the starting role last season after spending two years in the wings, Jurgens made an immediate impression. He started 16 regular season games and three postseason contests, including the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory. His play was steady, technically sound, and increasingly trusted by quarterback Jalen Hurts. The result? A Pro Bowl selection in his first full year as a starter—a feat Kelce himself didn’t achieve until his fourth NFL season.

Yet despite the accolades, some analysts still aren’t convinced.

Pro Football Focus ranked Jurgens 16th among all NFL centers in their latest evaluation, citing inconsistent pass protection and a lower pass-blocking grade as areas of concern. Statistically, he allowed four sacks and several pressures in critical moments. But within the Eagles' facility, the conversation is different.

“We’re not asking him to be Kelce. We’re asking him to be dependable,” said offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. “And he’s doing that.”

The Eagles clearly agree. This offseason, they extended Jurgens on a four-year, $68 million deal with over $39 million guaranteed, signaling their belief that the 25-year-old is more than just a stopgap — he’s the foundation of the future. The investment didn’t come lightly, especially given the presence of other high-paid linemen like Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata.

Jurgens' run-blocking, in particular, has been a highlight. His ability to pull, reach the second level, and create lanes in zone schemes has already drawn comparisons to his predecessor. And in a Vic Fangio-coached team that plans to control the clock and play physical, that skill set is paramount.

Off the field, Jurgens has embraced the leadership vacuum without forcing it. He’s often the first into meetings, rarely vocal during practice, but quick to pull rookies aside with technique corrections. It’s a different style than Kelce’s fiery bravado—but one that’s starting to resonate.

“I’m not trying to fill anyone’s shoes,” Jurgens said earlier this spring. “I just want to be someone this team can count on.”

The bar in Philadelphia is sky-high. Kelce wasn’t just elite—he was iconic. But every new era needs its own identity. And slowly, methodically, Cam Jurgens is earning the most valuable thing a center can have in this city:

Trust.