The Philadelphia Eagles, a franchise etched into NFL history with a storied 91-season span, holds a unique reverence for certain players who have donned the midnight green. Among them, Nick Foles stands out for his indelible contributions to the Eagles' only Super Bowl title, culminating in the celebrated "Philly Special" play that forever cemented his legend.
Nick Foles: Eagles' Folkloric Hero
Nick Foles is no ordinary quarterback in the eyes of Eagles fans. He is the sole quarterback to have led Philadelphia to Super Bowl glory, seizing the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl LII. Foles' postseason performances displayed an impressive 72.6% completion rate and a staggering 115.7 passer rating. His Super Bowl stats of 373 yards, three touchdown passes, and a touchdown reception underscore why he holds such a special place in the hearts of the Eagles faithful.
His pivotal moment came with the "Philly Special," a trick play that saw Foles catch a touchdown pass, a rare feat for a quarterback and a moment that lives on in NFL lore. So impactful was Foles' tenure that since his departure in 2018, the Eagles have not issued his No. 9 jersey—a testament to the franchise's acknowledgment of his iconic status.
"I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," said Josh Sweat, capturing the sentiment that surrounds the number made famous by Foles. The Eagles' protective stance over No. 9 signifies its unofficial retirement, reflecting the reverence the franchise has for the quarterback who brought them their most precious victory.
A Tradition of Reverence
Nine numbers have been officially retired by the Eagles, a roll call of franchise legends who have left indelible marks on the team. The honored numbers include 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).
The decision to not reissue No. 9, though unofficial, aligns with this tradition of honoring those who have significantly shaped the Eagles' history. This respect extends to other notable players, such as LeSean McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher. The Eagles have similarly refrained from reassigning McCoy's No. 25 jersey since his departure, cementing his legacy within the organization.
Josh Sweat and the Quest for a Jersey Number
Josh Sweat, drafted by the Eagles in 2018, has experienced this tradition firsthand. Initially wearing No. 75 before transitioning to No. 94, Sweat expressed a desire to don No. 9, only to find it unavailable due to its unofficial retired status. "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 remarked, underscoring the scarcity of available numbers for rising stars within the team.
Sweat's yearning for a single-digit jersey reflects a broader trend among NFL players seeking distinctive, memorable numbers. Despite the numerical shuffle, Sweat has embraced his journey with the Eagles, noting, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new." His adaptability and positive outlook resonate well with the team's ethos of resilience and renewal.
As the Eagles continue to carve out their future, they remain grounded in a profound respect for their past. The legends who have graced Lincoln Financial Field and the retired numbers that hang in perpetuity serve as a constant reminder of the franchise's rich history. And, amid all the evolving dynamics of the sport, the stories of players like Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy continue to inspire both current players and loyal fans alike.
Inside Lincoln Financial Field stands a statue of Nick Foles, a physical manifestation of his lasting impact on the team and its supporters. This tribute captures the essence of the Eagles’ approach—celebrating not just the victories, but the characters and narratives that have built the franchise's enduring legacy.