Nick Foles: An Enduring Legacy in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Eagles' storied franchise, spanning an impressive 91 seasons, has seen its fair share of iconic players and unforgettable moments. Yet, few can rival the lasting impact of Nick Foles, the quarterback who etched his name into the annals of NFL history by leading the Eagles to their first Super Bowl title.
Foles' Historic Run
When Nick Foles took the reins of the Eagles during the 2017 postseason, few could have predicted the historic run that would follow. Foles' postseason performance was nothing short of spectacular, achieving a 72.6% completion rate and a stellar 115.7 passer rating. His Super Bowl LII performance was the stuff of legends, amassing 373 yards, three touchdowns, and catching a touchdown in a play forever known as the "Philly Special."
This signature moment, defined by Foles' touchdown catch, was not just a game-winning play but a symbol of the Eagles' innovative spirit and resilience. It came to epitomize the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory and cemented Foles' status as a Philadelphia hero.
Honoring a Legacy
For the Eagles organization and its passionate fanbase, Foles' achievements warranted special recognition. Since his departure in 2018, the No. 9 jersey has not been reassigned. To many, this number is effectively retired, despite not being officially codified in franchise history. Defensive end Josh Sweat mentioned with some disappointment, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired."
Foles' impact is further immortalized with a statue inside Lincoln Financial Field, ensuring his contributions remain a visible part of the franchise's history.
The Tradition of Retired Numbers
While No. 9 holds a special place in the heart of the organization and its fans, the Eagles have formally retired nine other numbers, each representing a legend who left an indelible mark on the team:
- 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)
- Jerome Brown (99)
Such an exclusive honor reflects the deep respect and admiration the franchise holds for its greatest players. Notably, Josh Sweat expressed a wish regarding another retired number, stating, "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
Numbers and Symbolism
In the world of professional sports, numbers are more than just identifiers—they carry legacy and emotion. Josh Sweat, who has experienced this sentiment firsthand, initially wore No. 75 and later switched to No. 94 after being drafted in 2018. His comments capture the essence of what numbers mean to players:
"I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat said, reflecting on his own number changes, which symbolize personal milestones and fresh starts in his career.
Another notable case is that of LeSean McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher. Since his departure, the team has not reissued No. 25, signaling a tacit acknowledgment of McCoy's outstanding contributions to the franchise.
A Legacy to Build Upon
As the Philadelphia Eagles continue to forge their path in the NFL, the legacies of players like Nick Foles, LeSean McCoy, and others serve as foundational pillars. These legacies not only define the team's history but also inspire current and future generations of players. The deliberate handling of jersey numbers and the careful recognition of past achievements underscore the values and traditions that make the Eagles a storied and respected franchise in professional football.