The Legacy of Nick Foles and the No. 9: An Unbreakable Bond in Eagles History
The Philadelphia Eagles have a storied history spanning 91 seasons, but few chapters stand out as prominently as the era defined by quarterback Nick Foles and his iconic No. 9 jersey. This narrative intertwines heroics, record-setting performances, and a touch of Philadelphia magic.
Nick Foles, the man behind the most unforgettable moment in Eagles history, led the team to their first Super Bowl title. His postseason numbers are nothing short of spectacular. With a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating, Foles etched his name into NFL lore. His Super Bowl LII performance, where he passed for 373 yards, threw three touchdowns, and remarkably caught a touchdown pass, remains the stuff of legend.
The touchdown catch, famously known as the "Philly Special," encapsulates the audacious spirit of Philadelphia sports. It isn’t just a play; it’s a symbol of Foles' ingenuity and poise under pressure. This moment cemented his legacy and the No. 9 jersey's place in Eagles history.
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the Eagles have treated No. 9 with a reverence typically reserved for formally retired numbers. While it hasn't been officially retired, the franchise's decision not to reassign it speaks volumes about the respect Foles commands. Josh Sweat, a promising player keen on wearing No. 9, learned firsthand about the jersey’s untouchable status. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat revealed, reflecting on the jersey's hallowed status.
Interestingly, this unofficial retirement aligns with the Eagles' broader tradition of honoring their greats. The franchise has officially retired nine numbers, each representing the pinnacle of football excellence and contribution to the team's legacy. The list includes 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 legends have set a precedent for how the Eagles commemorate extraordinary talent and dedication.
Josh Sweat's journey with jersey numbers reflects his respect for the storied history of the franchise. Initially donning No. 75 after being drafted in 2018, Sweat later switched to No. 94. His candid remarks illustrate the challenge of carving out a new identity in the midst of such an illustrious backdrop. "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 jokingly remarked, highlighting the depth of historical significance embedded in the Eagles' retired numbers.
Despite his desire for the more iconic numbers, Sweat adopted a positive mindset towards his new choice. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he explained, showing his commitment to both respecting the franchise’s past and forging his own path.
In addition to the No. 9 jersey, the Eagles have also withheld No. 25 since the departure of LeSean McCoy, the franchise’s all-time leading rusher. Such decisions underscore the organization’s careful stewardship of its legacy and the symbols that represent its greatest achievements.
Among the physical tributes to Foles, a statue of the quarterback stands proudly inside Lincoln Financial Field. This monument not only commemorates his contributions but also serves as a constant reminder to fans of the joy and triumphs that he brought to Philadelphia.
As the Eagles continue their journey, balancing the preservation of past glories with the pursuit of future successes, the legacy of Nick Foles and the No. 9 jersey remains an indelible part of the team's identity. The reverence shown towards these symbols stands as a testament to the moments of magic that can define a franchise, inspiring current and future Eagles to strive for greatness.