Nick Foles and the Eagles' Legacy of No. 9
The Philadelphia Eagles franchise, with a storied history spanning 91 seasons, has redefined its identity through various impactful players over the decades. Among the most revered in recent memory is quarterback Nick Foles, whose time with the team left an indelible mark on both the fans and the franchise itself.
Nick Foles is celebrated not only as an exceptional player but as a monumental figure in Eagles history. Leading the team to its first-ever Super Bowl title, Foles cemented his legacy with a performance that resonates deeply within Philadelphia. In Super Bowl LII, Foles achieved a remarkable 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating throughout the postseason. His standout game included 373 passing yards, three touchdowns, and even a touchdown reception—famously known as the "Philly Special." This unforgettable moment has been immortalized in a statue of Foles inside Lincoln Financial Field.
Beyond his on-field heroics, Foles' presence is felt in other, more subtle ways. Following his departure in 2018, the Eagles have not reassigned his iconic No. 9 jersey, showing the immense respect the franchise holds for him. This informal retirement speaks volumes about the impact Foles had during his tenure with the Eagles.
The legacy of the No. 9 jersey was highlighted recently when defensive end Josh Sweat discussed his own number preferences. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat mentioned, further emphasizing the reverence held for Foles' contributions. Sweat's eagerness to don the number underscores its significance, even if it's no longer available due to its unique place in the hearts of Eagles fans and the organization alike.
Sweat's number journey didn't stop there. He initially took on No. 75 when he was drafted in 2018, later transitioning to No. 94, reflecting a personal desire for rejuvenation. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat shared, pointing to the deep personal connections athletes often have with their jersey numbers. His desire for No. 15—another unavailable choice due to its retirement in 1950—further demonstrates the cherished history encapsulated in certain jersey numbers for the Eagles.
The franchise has formally retired nine numbers to honor their legendary players. These include 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 of these players has left an indelible mark, shaping the franchise's rich history.
In a similar vein, the Eagles have not reissued No. 25 since the departure of LeSean McCoy, the team's all-time leading rusher. This is another testament to how much the franchise values the contributions of its standout players, ensuring their legacies are preserved and celebrated.
Nick Foles’ contributions to the Eagles cannot be overstated. His legacy is a mixture of impressive statistics, iconic moments, and a deep connection with the fanbase. The decision by the Eagles to unofficially retire No. 9 serves as a poignant reminder of his place in the annals of Philadelphia sports history. It is clear that while jerseys can be worn by many, some numbers belong to legends.