In the storied annals of the Philadelphia Eagles, few moments define the franchise quite like their crowning achievement in Super Bowl LII. A tale etched into NFL history, it is inextricably linked with the name Nick Foles. Foles is more than a quarterback for the Eagles; he is an icon, a symbol of triumph. His performances are legendary, and his significance to the team is underscored by a jersey number that remains sacrosanct on the roster.
Nick Foles: The Architect of Glory
Nick Foles led the Eagles to their inaugural Super Bowl victory, an achievement that stands unparalleled in the franchise’s 91-year history. His postseason prowess was marked by a remarkable 72.6% completion rate and an impressive passer rating of 115.7, metrics that placed him among the elite. The crowning moment came in Super Bowl LII, where Foles threw for 373 yards, notching three touchdown passes. But the highlight that resonates with fans and historians alike is the "Philly Special" – a trick play resulting in a touchdown catch by Foles himself, embedding his name forever in Philadelphia sports lore.
Foles' impact is such that his No. 9 jersey has not been reassigned since his departure in 2018. Indeed, as young defensive end Josh Sweat revealed, the number is unofficially retired. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat said, reflecting the deep respect the franchise has for Foles’ contributions.
The Symbolism of Number Retirements
Throughout their history, the Eagles have formally retired nine jersey numbers, a testament to the players who have left indelible marks on the team. Legends such as Donovan McNabb (5), Steve Van Buren (15), and Reggie White (92) are honored in this way, ensuring their legacies endure. The Eagles regard these numbers as symbols of excellence and commitment, crucial for a team with such a profound history.
The tradition extends beyond just the numbers hanging in Lincoln Financial Field. When Josh Sweat joined the team in 2018, he discovered the weight these retired numbers carry. Initially donning No. 75 and later switching to No. 94, Sweat’s desire to connect with the team’s history was palpable. "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 commented, spotlighting the tradition’s longevity. This nod to Steve Van Buren, one of the team's early stars, underscores the reverence current players have for past greats.
No jersey embodies this reverence more than No. 9, a reflection of the immense respect for Nick Foles. The Eagles have refrained from officially retiring Foles’ number, yet its absence from new rosters speaks volumes. Similarly, No. 25 has not been reissued since LeSean McCoy, the franchise’s all-time leading rusher, departed. These unspoken retirements maintain a bridge between the team’s storied past and its bright future.
Monuments to Heroes
Physical monuments further cement the legacy of Eagles’ heroes. A statue of Nick Foles inside Lincoln Financial Field serves as a permanent reminder of Super Bowl LII and the "Philly Special." It stands not just as a testament to Foles’ performance but as a beacon for what the Eagles represent—grit, determination, and ultimate triumph.
For Josh Sweat and his teammates, these tributes are sources of inspiration. The knowledge that the numbers they wear, and the fields they play on, hold such deep historical significance fuels their drive to add their own chapters to the Eagles’ saga. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat shared about his decision to change numbers, highlighting the evolving nature of personal and team legacies.
The Eagles are a franchise where history and future are tightly intertwined. Every retired number, every statue, and every unassigned jersey tells a story of greatness. Fans and players alike are keenly aware of the legacy they step into every time they don the green and white. And with each season, new legends are forged, continually enriching the rich tapestry that is the Philadelphia Eagles.