An Iconic Jersey and the Legacy of Nick Foles
For an illustrious 91 seasons, the Philadelphia Eagles have built a legacy steeped in tradition and loaded with legendary figures. Among these legends, Nick Foles holds a unique place in the hearts of Eagles fans. Not only did he quarterback the team to their only Super Bowl triumph, but he also did so with unparalleled efficiency and memorable heroics that have become folklore in Philadelphia. Foles, who wore the coveted No. 9 jersey, left an indelible mark on the franchise, a mark so significant that the number has not been reassigned since his departure in 2018.
Recognized most famously for his exploits during Super Bowl LII, Foles put on a career-defining performance, throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns while also catching a critical touchdown pass in the play famously known as the "Philly Special.” His playoff statistics were nothing short of exceptional, boasting a 72.6% completion rate and a passer rating of 115.7, cementing his place in Eagles lore.
The Revered No. 9
The significance of Foles’ No. 9 jersey extends beyond mere numbers and accolades. Since his departure, the Eagles organization has held the number in reverence, a symbolic gesture that underscores Foles' contributions and the monumental impact he had on the franchise. As defensive end Josh 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 sentiment highlights the esteem in which the number is held, an unwritten retired jersey that serves as an homage to Foles’ achievements.
Josh Sweat and the Quest for a Number
For Josh Sweat, the journey to find a meaningful jersey number has been particularly challenging, set against the backdrop of the Eagles’ deep-rooted history. Initially drafted in 2018, Sweat donned No. 75 before transitioning to No. 94. Yet, his preferred choice remains out of reach. "I wanted No. 15,” Sweat elaborated, “but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
Such comments underscore the delicate balance the Eagles face between honoring past greats and accommodating the needs of current players. The franchise has retired nine numbers, including those belonging to 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). This long list reflects the franchise’s storied past and its commitment to preserving the legacies of its greatest players.
The Shrine to Foles
Beyond the fashioning of jerseys, Foles' legacy is physically enshrined at Lincoln Financial Field with a statue commemorating his memorable contribution to the Eagles' Super Bowl win. The statue encapsulates the moment when Foles, in a script worthy of Hollywood, executed the trick play to perfection, catching the touchdown pass that not only stunned the Patriots but also delighted an entire city.
Future Jersey Retirements?
The Eagles have also not reissued another famed number since the departure of LeSean McCoy, the franchise’s all-time leading rusher, who wore No. 25. This suggests that the team might be taking a page out of the same playbook used for Foles’ jersey. While no formal announcements have been made, it seems likely that McCoy’s number might also unofficially enter a period of retirement.
As for Josh Sweat, the quest for a new number served more as an opportunity for rebirth than a point of contention. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat shared, reflecting a sentiment that many players experience during their career transitions. This attitude mirrors the ongoing evolution within the franchise itself, continually finding ways to honor its storied past while striving for future success.
In a league where players often come and go, and jersey numbers are typically reassigned without much ceremony, the steadfast respect given to Nick Foles’ No. 9 by the Eagles stands out. It is a tribute to what he accomplished, a nod to the hope he inspired, and a testament to the Super Bowl memories that will forever echo in the annals of Philadelphia Eagles history. The numbers that remain unworn or retired are more than just fabric—they're pieces of the team's soul, emblematic of the incredible individuals who have donned them. And for Eagles fans, they represent a bridge between an unforgettable past and a hopeful future.