Eagles' No. 9: A Symbol of Triumph and Respect
The Philadelphia Eagles, a franchise with a storied 91-season history, have immortalized several players by retiring their numbers. Among them, one number stands apart for its recent legacy of heroics and Super Bowl triumph—No. 9, last worn by quarterback Nick Foles.
The Legacy of Nick Foles
Nick Foles is etched in Eagles lore, not just for his skill on the field, but for his pivotal role in delivering the team's first Super Bowl title. During his tenure, Foles showcased remarkable postseason prowess, boasting a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating. Super Bowl LII was his magnum opus; he threw for 373 yards, scored three touchdowns, and even caught a touchdown pass, the latter becoming the iconic "Philly Special" play. His performance cemented his status as an Eagles legend.
Following Foles' departure in 2018, the Eagles have chosen not to reassign the No. 9 jersey, effectively treating it as retired. This gesture underscores the franchise’s recognition of Foles’ significant contributions. Josh Sweat, a current Eagles player, highlighted this sentiment when he shared, "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired."
Honoring History
The Eagles' decision to withhold Foles' number is part of a broader tradition of honoring players who have left a profound impact on the team. The franchise has formally retired nine other numbers, immortalizing icons like Donovan McNabb (5), Steve Van Buren (15), and Reggie White (92). These retired numbers serve as a tableau of the team’s history, each representing players who have shaped the Eagles' legacy.
Josh Sweat’s Journey
Drafted in 2018, Josh Sweat navigated the landscape of the Eagles' entrenched traditions with adaptability. Initially sporting No. 75, Sweat later transitioned to No. 94. His desire for a meaningful number was palpable, as evidenced by his comments on seeking No. 9. He even humorously remarked on another retired number: "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’s journey reflects the challenges and respects that come with joining a storied franchise like the Eagles. His evolution in jersey numbers marks both personal growth and a nod to the legends who came before him. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat commented, emphasizing his readiness to carve out his own place in the Eagles’ pantheon.
Other Unassigned Numbers
While Foles' No. 9 holds a special place, the Eagles have also chosen not to reissue No. 25 after LeSean McCoy’s departure. McCoy, the franchise’s all-time leading rusher, left an indelible mark with his on-field prowess and contributions to the team's success. This reverence for McCoy further exemplifies the Eagles’ commitment to honoring their most impactful players.
Commemorating Legends
Nick Foles’ legacy extends beyond the retired jersey number. Immortalized in statue form at Lincoln Financial Field, Foles remains a towering figure in the Eagles community. The statue not only celebrates his athletic achievements but serves as an inspiration for future generations of Eagles players and fans.
In a franchise rich with history and tradition, the stories of players like Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy continue to resonate. Their legacies, symbolized by the respectful retirement and retention of their jersey numbers, remind us of the impact that individual players can have on a team’s identity and success.
The Philadelphia Eagles' practice of preserving the numbers of their legends serves as a testament to the lasting influence of these players. As new talents like Josh Sweat strive to make their mark, they do so within a framework defined by the greatness of those who came before them. It is this blend of honoring history while embracing the future that keeps the spirit of the Eagles soaring high.