The Legacy of No. 9: Nick Foles' Unforgettable Impact on the Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles franchise holds a rich 91-year history, filled with remarkable players and unforgettable moments. Among those, Nick Foles stands out not only as the last player to don the No. 9 jersey but also as the quarterback who led the Eagles to their first Super Bowl title.
Foles cemented his legacy in Philadelphia sports history during Super Bowl LII. Demonstrating remarkable poise and skill, he achieved a 72.6% completion rate and an exceptional 115.7 passer rating throughout the postseason. In a game that Eagles fans will never forget, Foles racked up 373 yards, threw for three touchdowns, and even caught a touchdown. This iconic catch, known as the "Philly Special," remains one of the most celebrated plays in NFL history.
In recognition of his contributions and achievements, the Eagles have shown considerable respect for Foles by not reassigning the No. 9 jersey since his departure in 2018. "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, reflecting the high esteem in which the team holds Foles' legacy.
Although the franchise has formally retired nine numbers — including 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) — Nick Foles' No. 9 is regarded with a similar reverence. The willingness to keep Foles' jersey number unofficially retired speaks volumes about his impact.
Josh Sweat encountered the jersey dilemma upon being drafted by the Eagles in 2018. Initially assigned No. 75, he later switched to No. 94. "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 joked, highlighting the enduring legacy of Eagles' retired numbers.
Beyond his preferred number, Sweat eventually found motivation to change his jersey. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he explained, showcasing his willingness to make his own mark on the team while respecting the legacies of those who came before him.
The Eagles have withheld reassigning certain numbers, with No. 25 being another example. This number, once worn by LeSean McCoy, the franchise's all-time leading rusher, hasn't been reissued since his departure. This practice underlines the franchise's commitment to honoring its standout players and their contributions.
Foles' influence extends beyond numerical tributes; it is immortalized within Lincoln Financial Field, where a statue of him stands. This statue serves as a lasting testament to his moment of triumph and the indelible mark he left on the team and its fans.
As the Eagles continue to build on their storied history, the legacy of Nick Foles serves as a beacon of inspiration. It is a reminder of the pivotal moments and legendary figures that have shaped the team. The respect paid to numbers like 9 and 25 reflects a deep-seated tradition of honoring those who have contributed significantly to the franchise's legacy. Foles, with his extraordinary Super Bowl performance and leadership, will forever be entwined in the fabric of Philadelphia Eagles history.