The Legacy of No. 9: Nick Foles and the Philadelphia Eagles
In the storied 91-year history of the Philadelphia Eagles, certain numbers have become iconic, representing the lasting impact of the players who wore them. One such number is 9, last donned by Nick Foles, a quarterback who carved out a unique place in the franchise's legacy. Foles is remembered not just for his performance on the field but for cementing his place as the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory.
Foles' tenure with the Eagles is highlighted by his exceptional postseason performance, boasting a 72.6% completion rate and an impressive 115.7 passer rating. The pinnacle of his achievements came in Super Bowl LII, where he threw for 373 yards, scored three touchdowns, and even caught a touchdown pass in the play famously dubbed the "Philly Special." This memorable moment helped secure a victory over the New England Patriots, bringing the Eagles their first Super Bowl title. Following his departure in 2018, the franchise has yet to reissue the No. 9 jersey, a silent nod to his unparalleled contributions.
The reverence for Foles is evident not only in the unretired yet unofficially reserved status of the No. 9 jersey but also in the physical embodiment of his legacy: a statue inside Lincoln Financial Field. This figure stands as a tribute to the quarterback who delivered when it mattered most, etching his name in Eagles lore forever.
The significance of jersey numbers is not lost on the current roster either. Defensive end Josh Sweat, who joined the team in 2018, initially desired to wear No. 9, a number he cherished from his high school and college days. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat remarked, acknowledging the gravitas of the number within the franchise. He initially selected No. 75 and later transitioned to No. 94.
This isn't the first time Sweat encountered the obstacle of a retired number. His secondary choice, No. 15, was also out of reach. "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back," he quipped. Despite these minor setbacks, Sweat embraced the number changes with a resilient spirit, saying, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new." His adaptability reflects the broader team ethos of respecting tradition while forging new paths.
The Eagles have formally retired nine numbers, each representing a player whose contributions left an indelible mark on the team. The select group 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). These numbers serve as enduring symbols of the franchise's rich history and the players who defined it.
Another number the Eagles have not reissued is No. 25, belonging to LeSean McCoy, the team's all-time leading rusher. McCoy’s exceptional career with the Eagles made No. 25 synonymous with excellence on the field, much like Foles with the No. 9.
The Philadelphia Eagles, a team deeply rooted in tradition, continue to honor the legends who have shaped their history. While some numbers are officially retired, others like No. 9 remain sacred through an unspoken reverence. Nick Foles' contributions during his time with the Eagles have ensured that his legacy will live on, both through the number he wore and the tangible symbols of his success. As future generations of Eagles players take the field, they do so with the knowledge and respect for the history that came before them.