The Philadelphia Eagles franchise, with a storied history spanning 91 seasons, carries with it numerous moments of glory and transformative players. Among these, Nick Foles holds a special place, not just in the annals of the team, but in the hearts of its fans. Foles, who last donned the No. 9 jersey, remains a monumental figure, being the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl title.
Foles' performance in Super Bowl LII is the stuff of legend. With a completion rate of 72.6% and a passer rating of 115.7, he threw for 373 yards and three touchdowns. One of the standout moments of that game, and arguably in Eagles history, was the "Philly Special" play, where Foles caught a touchdown pass - a play forever etched in the memories of football aficionados. Such heroics ensured that No. 9 would not be reassigned following Foles' departure in 2018, a gesture that underscores the reverence the Eagles have for his contributions.
The Legacy of No. 9
Nick Foles' No. 9 jersey stands alongside the officially retired numbers of Eagles greats, even though it hasn't been formally retired. Players like Josh Sweat, who wanted to wear No. 9, have found it unavailable, as the team regards it with a near-retired status. As Sweat noted, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired." This speaks volumes about the high esteem in which Foles is held within the Eagles organization.
Josh Sweat’s Journey with Numbers
Josh Sweat, drafted in 2018, had a journey with jersey numbers of his own. Initially donning No. 75, he switched to No. 94 as he sought a fresh start. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat commented, highlighting his desire for a personal transformation on the field. Sweat's first choice, however, was not No. 94 but No. 15, the number worn by Eagles legend Steve Van Buren. "I wanted No. 15," Sweat revealed, "but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
Retiring Numbers: A Hall of Fame Tradition
The Eagles have formally retired nine numbers, a testament to the elite players who have donned the team's colors over the years. The list includes 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). Each retired number tells a story of excellence and dedication, embedding a legacy that newer players strive to live up to.
LeSean McCoy's departure also left a void, with his No. 25 yet to be reissued. McCoy remains the Eagles' all-time leading rusher, and his impact on the field is still fresh in the minds of fans and players alike. The hesitancy to reassign his number further echoes the respect and admiration for players who have significantly contributed to the franchise.
Honoring Heroes: The Statue of Nick Foles
Within Lincoln Financial Field stands a statue of Nick Foles, a permanent tribute to his heroics and the indelible mark he left on the Eagles. This statue not only commemorates his achievements but serves as an inspiration to current and future players. It’s a physical representation of a legacy built on perseverance, skill, and an unwavering spirit.
As the Eagles continue to forge their path in the NFL, the shadows of these legends linger, providing both a benchmark and a beacon. For players like Josh Sweat, the numbers they aspire to wear are more than just digits on a jersey. They symbolize a connection to the team's rich history and the remarkable individuals who have helped shape its legacy.
In every snap, tackle, and touchdown, the spirit of these Eagles greats lives on, inspiring a new generation to strive for greatness and etch their names in the storied history of the Philadelphia Eagles.