The Philadelphia Eagles franchise boasts a rich history spanning 91 seasons, marked by legendary players and unforgettable moments. Among the most notable is Nick Foles, a quarterback who has carved out a unique place in the hearts of Eagles fans and in the annals of the team's history.
Nick Foles is celebrated not only for his impressive postseason statistics—achieving a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating—but also for leading the Eagles to their only Super Bowl title. His performance in Super Bowl LII was nothing short of extraordinary, amassing 373 yards, three touchdowns, and catching a touchdown pass that became famously known as the "Philly Special."
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the No. 9 jersey he wore has not been reassigned, a testament to the respect and admiration the team and its fans hold for him. Josh Sweat, another promising talent for the Eagles, discovered this firsthand. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat revealed, highlighting the unofficial retirement of the number.
This sentiment of honoring legacy is not new to the Eagles. The franchise has formally retired nine numbers to date, including those of 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 left an indelible mark on the team’s history, much like Foles.
In a league where numbers on jerseys carry significant meaning and history, Josh Sweat's journey symbolizes the balance between tradition and the aspirations of new players. Initially donning No. 75 after being drafted in 2018, Sweat later switched to No. 94, seeking a fresh start and personal evolution within the team. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he explained, underscoring a common feeling among athletes aiming to carve their own legacy.
Interestingly, Sweat also showed interest in No. 15, a number retired since the 1950s to honor Steve Van Buren, an iconic player in Eagles history. "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 joked, reflecting both a reverence for the past and an athlete's natural desire to make a mark with a meaningful number.
Beyond the numbers, the Eagles celebrate their heroes in other significant ways. The presence of a statue of Nick Foles inside Lincoln Financial Field stands as a perpetual reminder of his contributions. It's not just about the accolades or the statistics but about embodying the spirit and fight that the Eagles franchise has championed for decades.
The story of Nick Foles and the respect his No. 9 jersey commands constitutes one chapter in the broader narrative of the Philadelphia Eagles. While the team continues to evolve and new players like Josh Sweat step up to the challenge, the legacy of past heroes remains an integral part of the organization’s identity. As the Eagles look to the future, they do so with an eye firmly trained on the landmark achievements and moments that have defined their past.