The Philadelphia Eagles franchise is rich with a heritage spanning 91 seasons, imbued with iconic moments and legendary players. Among these legends, quarterback Nick Foles stands out not just for his performance but for the indelible mark he has left on the team and its fans.
Nick Foles: The Iconic No. 9
Nick Foles' significance to the Eagles is encapsulated by his achievements, especially during the postseason. Foles led the Eagles to their first Super Bowl title, etching his name into Philadelphia's sports lore. His remarkable postseason statistics include a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating. These numbers only begin to tell the story of his impact on the field.
Super Bowl LII remains a watershed moment for Foles and the Eagles. His performance, with 373 yards and three touchdowns, was nothing short of heroic. Perhaps the most memorable play of that game was his touchdown catch, a trick play that has since been immortalized as the "Philly Special". This play, showcasing his versatility and composure under pressure, has become a defining moment for the franchise.
The Reverence of No. 9
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the No. 9 jersey has not been reassigned, signifying the reverence held for him within the organization. Defensive end Josh Sweat, who had hoped to don the number, learned firsthand about its special status. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college," Sweat remarked, "But I can't get 9 now because it's retired."
While the No. 9 isn't officially retired, the Eagles' decision to keep it out of circulation tells of an unofficial yet deeply felt acknowledgment of Foles' contributions. This decision places Foles in esteemed company among the nine players who have had their numbers formally retired by the franchise.
The Permanence of Legacy
In addition to the unofficial retirement of No. 9, the Eagles have erected a statue of Foles inside Lincoln Financial Field. This physical manifestation of his legacy ensures that fans will forever remember his role in bringing the coveted Lombardi Trophy to Philadelphia.
The respect Foles commands is mirrored in the formal retirement of other significant numbers: Donovan McNabb's No. 5, Steve Van Buren's No. 15, Brian Dawkins' No. 20, Tom Brookshier's No. 40, Pete Pihos' No. 44, Chuck Bednarik's No. 60, Al Wistert's No. 70, Reggie White's No. 92, and Jerome Brown's No. 99. These players, like Foles, have left indelible impressions on the franchise and its history.
Other Unassigned Numbers
Interestingly, the Eagles have also refrained from reissuing No. 25 since the departure of LeSean McCoy, their all-time leading rusher. This choice further emphasizes the franchise's approach to preserving the legacy of their standout players by not allowing new players to wear numbers that hold historical significance.
Josh Sweat and His Quest for a Number
When Josh Sweat was drafted in 2018, he initially wore No. 75 and later No. 94. He humorously recounted his journey in finding a number, expressing his wish for No. 9 and even No. 15. "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back," Sweat quipped.
Ultimately, his desire for a fresh start led him to opt for No. 94. As he put it, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new."
This need for renewal while respecting the rich history and tradition of the Eagles underscores the blend of continuity and change that characterizes professional sports franchises. As new players aspire to make their mark, they do so with an awareness and appreciation of the legends who came before them.
In Philadelphia, the legacy of Nick Foles and his famed No. 9 jersey is a testament to a momentous chapter in Eagles history. It serves as a reminder of the glory days and sets a high standard for future players aiming to etch their names alongside the greats.