The Philadelphia Eagles hold a storied legacy spanning over 91 seasons, with an array of memorable moments and celebrated players who have left indelible marks on the franchise. One player whose impact is particularly notable is quarterback Nick Foles. Best known for leading the Eagles to their lone Super Bowl title, Foles' contributions resonate deeply within the fabric of the team’s history.
Foles' crowning achievement came during Super Bowl LII, where his standout performance included 373 passing yards and three touchdowns. Notably, Foles also caught a touchdown pass in a play famously known as the "Philly Special," further cementing his place in NFL lore. His postseason performance saw him achieving an impressive 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating, numbers that stand as a testament to his exceptional play under pressure.
Since his departure from the team in 2018, the No. 9 jersey, which Foles last donned, has not been reassigned—a mark of the franchise's regard for his contributions. This sentiment was highlighted by Eagles' defensive end Josh Sweat, who shared his desire to wear the number. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat remarked, encapsulating the reverence the team holds for Foles' legacy.
In fact, the Eagles have formally retired nine numbers in total. These numbers belong 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). Each retired number symbolizes exceptional contributions and serves as a constant reminder of the players' legacies within the franchise.
Interestingly, Sweat also expressed a wish to wear another of the Eagles' retired numbers. "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950," he said, adding humorously, "I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
Upon being drafted in 2018, Sweat initially wore No. 75, later switching to No. 94. His desire for change likely stemmed from a personal need for renewal and evolution. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat explained, reflecting a sentiment familiar to many athletes who seek a fresh start by changing their jersey numbers.
Apart from Nick Foles, another number that has not been reissued since its previous owner’s departure is No. 25, last worn by LeSean McCoy. McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher, left a lasting impression with his remarkable performances and achievements during his tenure with the team.
The reverence for Foles extends beyond just the jersey. Inside Lincoln Financial Field, a statue of Foles stands proudly, a tribute to his pivotal role in the Eagles' historic Super Bowl victory. This statue serves as a constant source of inspiration and a physical embodiment of the Eagles' triumph—a reminder of the heights the team can reach through determination and teamwork.
The careful consideration given to reassigning jersey numbers speaks volumes about the Eagles' respect for their history and the players who have significantly impacted the franchise. To this day, the retired and revered numbers remain a symbol of honor and a goal for future players to aspire towards.
As the Eagles continue to forge ahead in their storied journey, the echoes of past legends like Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy will undoubtedly continue to inspire new generations of players and fans alike, creating a legacy that is rich, enduring, and cherished.