The Philadelphia Eagles possess a storied legacy enriched by iconic moments and legendary players, a legacy that spans 91 seasons. A notable chapter in this history is marked by the indelible imprint of Nick Foles, the last player to don the No. 9 jersey.
Foles' Unforgettable Super Bowl Performance
Nick Foles carved his name into the annals of Eagles history by leading the team to their first Super Bowl title. His phenomenal postseason run was marked by a 72.6% completion rate and an impressive 115.7 passer rating. However, it was Super Bowl LII that truly cemented his legacy. In a performance for the ages, Foles threw for 373 yards, delivered three touchdowns, and astonishingly caught a touchdown pass himself, a play now eternally known as the "Philly Special."
This iconic play and overall performance not only secured the Lombardi Trophy for the Eagles but also earned Foles a statue inside Lincoln Financial Field, a symbol of his place in Eagles lore.
The Revered No. 9
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the Eagles have regarded No. 9 as quasi-retired. This stance is evident in the experiences of players like Josh Sweat. When asked about the number, Sweat, who initially wore No. 75 and later switched to No. 94, mentioned, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired." It’s clear that while not formally retired, No. 9 holds a revered status within the organization.
Retired Numbers: A Glance at Eagles' History
The Eagles have formally retired nine numbers, each representing a chapter of greatness in Philadelphia's football history. These 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 are more than just digits; they are symbols of the legacy and contributions these players brought to the franchise.
Reflecting on the significance of these numbers, Josh Sweat quipped, "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back." This lighthearted remark underscores the historical weight these numbers carry and the respect the current generation of players has for their predecessors.
LeSean McCoy: The Unretired, Retired No. 25
Another number that has taken on a similar revered status is No. 25, last worn by LeSean McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher. Since his departure, the team has not reissued No. 25, a testament to McCoy's impact and legacy with the franchise. Though not formally retired, much like Foles’ No. 9, McCoy's number is treated with a hushed reverence.
Honoring Legends While Embracing the Future
The Philadelphia Eagles' approach to their iconic numbers demonstrates a delicate balancing act between honoring the past while forging ahead into the future. This culture fosters a deep sense of pride and history within the team while motivating current players to carve out their own legacies. As Josh Sweat noted, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," reflecting the ongoing journey of players striving to create their own historic moments while respecting the rich tapestry of those who came before.
In every snap, touchdown, and play, the echoes of Eagles' legends resonate, weaving a continuous thread through the fabric of the franchise, connecting the glory of the past with the promise of the future.