The Legacy of Number 9: Nick Foles and the Philadelphia Eagles
As the Philadelphia Eagles franchise looks back on its storied 91-season history, one number has taken on an aura of reverence that extends beyond its numerical value. The No. 9 jersey, famously worn by quarterback Nick Foles, is remembered for moments of triumph and iconic plays that have forever etched it in the annals of Eagles lore. Foles, the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to the pinnacle of NFL success, the Super Bowl title, has not just worn the number but has immortalized it.
Nick Foles' Unforgettable Performance
Nick Foles' legacy became cemented during Super Bowl LII. With a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating during the postseason, Foles demonstrated an elite level of play that culminated in his Super Bowl heroics. Amassing 373 yards and throwing three touchdowns, Foles had a performance for the ages. He even caught a touchdown pass in the game, a play now famously known as the "Philly Special", highlighting his versatile and unflappable nature on the grandest stage.
For the Eagles and their fans, Foles' achievements go beyond statistics. His leadership and remarkable performance brought the city of Philadelphia its first Super Bowl title, transforming No. 9 into a symbol of hope, victory, and resilience.
Retiring a Symbol
Since Foles' departure from the team in 2018, the Eagles have notably not reassigned the No. 9 jersey. While the team has only formally retired nine jersey numbers, No. 9 has become de facto retired in the eyes of the franchise and its faithful. This unique status for Foles' jersey exemplifies the profound impact he has had on the organization. Defensive end Josh Sweat, who initially wore No. 75 and later No. 94 after being drafted by the Eagles, expressed his own fascination with the unattainable No. 9.
"I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat lamented, acknowledging the honor implicitly bestowed upon Foles through the unofficial retirement of his jersey number.
A Hall of Fame Honor Roll
The Philadelphia Eagles have officially retired a slate of numbers, honoring legends who have made indelible marks on the franchise. These 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). Each retired number is a testament to the extraordinary players who have shaped the team's history.
Among these hallowed numbers, certain stories stand out. Steve Van Buren's No. 15, which has been retired since the 1950s, caught the eye of Josh Sweat. "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 quipped, humorously underscoring the enduring legacy of the franchise's legendary figures.
The Untouchable Numbers
Nick Foles isn't the only player whose number remains unworn despite not being officially retired. The No. 25 jersey, last worn by LeSean McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher, has also not been reassigned. This hesitancy to reuse certain numbers speaks to the deep respect the organization has for its most iconic players, preserving their legacy through the reverence of their jerseys.
A Monument to Greatness
Beyond the statistics and the jersey numbers, Nick Foles' monumental contribution to the Eagles is also immortalized in a physical form. Inside Lincoln Financial Field stands a statue of Foles, a shrine to a quarterback whose contributions transcended the game and became a beacon of hope for Philadelphia fans.
These symbols, whether they are retired numbers or statues, encapsulate the spirit and excellence that these players brought to the Eagles. They serve as constant reminders to current and future players of the standards set before them.
Foles' legacy, embodied by the No. 9, continues to inspire. Each new season brings fresh faces and new opportunities, but the history and tradition forged by giants like Nick Foles remain an integral part of the Philadelphia Eagles' identity. As the team gears up for future successes, the stories and numbers that define its past will always offer a guiding light.