Nick Foles: The Legend Behind the Philadelphia Eagles' No. 9
The Philadelphia Eagles, a franchise with a rich history spanning over 91 seasons, hold their tradition and player legacy in high regard. Few players have made as lasting an impact on the team’s lore as Nick Foles, who is cemented in Eagles history for his unforgettable contributions, particularly during their Super Bowl triumph.
Foles, the last player to wear the No. 9 jersey for the Eagles, has not seen his number reissued since his departure in 2018. His exceptional performance in the postseason, which included a sterling 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating, has solidified his place in Eagles folklore.
The Iconic No. 9
During Super Bowl LII, Foles recorded 373 passing yards and threw for three touchdowns. His versatility was on full display when he famously caught a touchdown pass on a trick play now known as the "Philly Special," etching his name into NFL history and Philadelphia hearts. The Eagles have treated the No. 9 as an unofficially retired number ever since, marking it as a symbol of Foles' legacy.
Josh Sweat, currently with the Eagles, once expressed his frustration about being unable to don the iconic number. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat mentioned, highlighting the revered status of Foles’ jersey. Sweat initially wore No. 75 and later transitioned to No. 94 after being drafted in 2018.
Retired Numbers: A Tradition of Honor
The Eagles have formally retired nine numbers, honoring players who have made monumental contributions to the franchise. These retired numbers include 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 numbers serve as lasting tributes to the legends that graced the field and forever changed the game.
While the No. 9 has not been formally retired, it remains untouched, serving as a silent acknowledgment of Foles’ heroics. This unofficial retirement aligns with the Eagles' tradition of honoring their most impactful players in a profound and respectful manner.
The Unfulfilled Desire for No. 15
Another instance illustrating the Eagles' respect for their retired numbers involves Sweat’s desire to wear No. 15, which was retired in honor of Steve Van Buren. "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 humorously noted. Despite his wish, the legacy of Van Buren, a Hall of Famer who led the league in rushing yards multiple times and was instrumental during his era, remains enshrined through the retirement of his number.
In addition to Foles' No. 9, the Eagles have also opted not to reissue No. 25 since the departure of LeSean McCoy, the franchise's all-time leading rusher. This decision highlights the team’s penchant for honoring their standout players by preserving their numbers, even if not through formal retirement.
A Legacy Enshrined in Bronze
Foles’ impact extends beyond the number on his jersey. Inside Lincoln Financial Field stands a statue of Nick Foles, a testament to his role in the Eagles’ only Super Bowl victory. The statue immortalizes the quarterback’s iconic touchdown catch and serves as a rallying point for fans, symbolizing one of the proudest moments in the franchise’s history.
The reverence for Nick Foles within the Philadelphia Eagles organization is evident through their treatment of his jersey number and the statue that stands in his honor. These gestures underscore the deep respect and gratitude the franchise and its fans hold for Foles, the quarterback who delivered a Super Bowl title to Philadelphia.
Through these acts of homage, the Eagles continue to honor the players who have shaped their history, ensuring their legacies endure for future generations. The story of Nick Foles and the No. 9 jersey remains a powerful chapter in the annals of the Philadelphia Eagles, one that celebrates triumph, dedication, and the everlasting bond between a player and his team.