As the Philadelphia Eagles soar into their 91st season, the legacy of certain numbers on their roster holds a special place in the hearts of fans and players alike. One such number is No. 9, worn with pride and purpose by quarterback Nick Foles during his time with the team. Foles' contributions define his tenure with the Eagles, and his departure in 2018 left an indelible mark on the franchise.
A Legendary Legacy
Nick Foles, the last player to don the No. 9 jersey, remains the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory. His stunning performance in Super Bowl LII, where he threw for 373 yards, delivered three touchdowns, and famously caught a touchdown pass in a play known as the "Philly Special," sits high in the annals of Philadelphia sports history. Foles finished that postseason with a remarkable 72.6% completion rate and an impressive 115.7 passer rating, numbers that underscore just how pivotal he was in the Eagles' only Super Bowl triumph.
This storied performance has elevated No. 9 to an honored status within the franchise. The Eagles have not reassigned the number since Foles left in 2018, treating it as though it were retired, a testament to the quarterback's monumental achievements. Josh Sweat, a defensive end for the team, shared his personal connection to the number, stating, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired."
Respect and Reverence
Sweat's journey with jersey numbers navigates through tradition and respect for the game’s history. He initially wore No. 75 upon being drafted in 2018 but later switched to No. 94. His comments reveal his understanding of the legacy attached to certain numbers, even expressing a wish that previously retired numbers be reconsidered. "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back," he remarked.
The Eagles have formally retired nine jersey 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 numbers encase storied careers and significant contributions to the team, creating a dauntingly selective roster of honored players. It's a list many players respect and aspire to join, understanding that wearing these numbers comes with immense responsibility and homage to past greatness.
LeSean McCoy’s No. 25, although not officially retired, falls under a similar reverence. The Eagles' all-time leading rusher left a legacy that the team has chosen not to overshadow by immediately reissuing his number. This gesture mirrors the respect shown to Foles' No. 9, recognizing standout players who have indelibly shaped the franchise’s history.
Statue of Greatness
Beyond the jersey number, Nick Foles’ legacy is immortalized in a more tangible form. A statue of Foles stands prominently inside Lincoln Financial Field, serving as a constant reminder of the quarterback's historic impact on the franchise. This statue doesn't just celebrate past achievements; it aims to inspire current and future Eagles players to strive for greatness.
For players like Josh Sweat, the desire to craft their unique legacies while navigating the shadows of giants is a motivating force. His adaptation to new jersey numbers reflects an understanding that change can symbolize personal growth and new beginnings, just as he commented, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new."
In Philadelphia, the legacy of a number extends beyond the fabric of a jersey—it is a badge of honor, a tribute to athletic excellence, and a narrative thread that weaves through the franchise's rich history. The reverence for such numbers underscores an appreciation and respect for those who have left an indelible mark on the Eagles, ensuring their contributions will never be forgotten.