The Philadelphia Eagles, a franchise with a storied history spanning 91 seasons, have seen numerous legendary players pass through their ranks. One of the most recent icons is Nick Foles, whose time with the team left an indelible mark on the franchise. Foles, who last wore the No. 9 jersey, led the Eagles to their only Super Bowl title.
Foles' performance during the postseason is particularly noteworthy. He achieved a 72.6% completion rate and an impressive 115.7 passer rating. But it was in Super Bowl LII where Foles truly etched his name in the annals of NFL history. In that game, he amassed 373 yards, threw for three touchdowns, and caught a touchdown pass himself. That memorable touchdown catch is famously known as the "Philly Special," a play that has since become a part of NFL lore.
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the Eagles have preserved the No. 9 jersey out of respect for his contributions. The decision to not reassign the number underscores the significance of Foles' achievements with the team. This sentiment is echoed by defensive end Josh Sweat, who mentioned, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired."
Josh Sweat, who joined the Eagles in 2018, initially wore No. 75 before switching to No. 94. His desire to don the No. 9 jersey was stymied by the team's reverence for Foles. Sweat's yearning for a connection to the franchise's past was further illustrated when he expressed a wish for another retired number, saying, "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
The Eagle Tradition of Retiring Jerseys
The Eagles have a tradition of formally retiring numbers to honor their legends. Currently, nine numbers have been officially retired: Donovan McNabb (5), Steve Van Buren (15), Brian Dawkins (20), Tom Brookshier (40), Pete Pihos (44), Chuck Bednarik (60), Al Wistert (70), Reggie White (92), and Jerome Brown (99). These numbers are more than just identifiers; they represent the legacies of players who have profoundly impacted the franchise.
In addition to these officially retired numbers, the Eagles have not reissued No. 25 since LeSean McCoy's departure. McCoy, the team's all-time leading rusher, left behind a legacy on the field that still resonates with fans and the organization alike.
A Living Monument
Further solidifying Nick Foles' legendary status within the franchise is the statue of him inside Lincoln Financial Field. This statue serves as a constant reminder of Foles' contributions and the unforgettable Super Bowl run. For a franchise that has fought through decades of ups and downs, including the heartache of missed opportunities and near-misses, the statue stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to perseverance.
As the Eagles look to the future, the reverence for their past heroes remains strong. The decision to hold certain numbers in a state of quasi-retirement, like Foles' No. 9, speaks volumes about the organization's respect for their standout players. It represents a bridge between the past and the future, highlighting the continuity of excellence that the franchise aims to sustain.
Josh Sweat's dynamic presence on the field, coupled with his acknowledgment of the greats who came before him, embodies this balance of honoring the past while striving for future glory. His comment, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," reflects a desire to carve out his own path while respecting the traditions that have shaped the team's identity.
The Philadelphia Eagles continue to build on a rich history, driven by both past legends and emerging stars. As the memories of Super Bowl LII linger and the "Philly Special" play is replayed in the minds of fans, the legacy of Nick Foles and the retired numbers of Eagles greats will forever remain interwoven with the franchise's narrative. The preservation of these numbers isn't just about the past; it's about inspiring future generations of Eagles to rise to the occasion and create their own legacies.