For fans of the Philadelphia Eagles, the No. 9 jersey holds a unique place in the franchise's storied history, which stretches back an impressive 91 seasons. This number, once sported by Nick Foles, signifies more than just a player’s uniform; it encapsulates some of the most memorable moments in Eagles' history.
Nick Foles' tenure in Philadelphia is legendary, and his performance in Super Bowl LII is the stuff of legend. Completing 72.6% of his passes and achieving a stellar 115.7 passer rating in the postseason, Foles demonstrated extraordinary skill and poise under pressure. But it was his spectacular outing in the Super Bowl that solidified his status as an Eagles icon. Foles passed for 373 yards and threw three touchdowns. He even caught a touchdown in one of the most famous trick plays in NFL history, known as the "Philly Special."
The emotional and historical weight of No. 9 is profound, so much so that the Eagles have not reassigned the number since Foles’ departure in 2018. Although the Eagles have retired nine jersey numbers officially, including franchise legends such as 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), it appears that No. 9 has been given an unofficially retired status.
Josh Sweat, an emerging defensive star for the Eagles, provides insight into the sanctity of the number. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," he shared, reflecting on his own aspirations for the number. Instead, Sweat had to content himself with No. 75 after being drafted in 2018, later switching to No. 94. His initial disappointment was evident, "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back."
The jerseys that have been retired officially by the Eagles each symbolize an era of great talent and seminal moments in the team’s long history. However, the de facto retirement of Foles’ No. 9 serves to underscore his significant contributions to a championship milestone. The Eagles organization evidently regards the number with a reverence that speaks to the emotional connection fans have with Foles and their Super Bowl triumph.
This sentiment is poignantly captured by the statuary honor given to Foles. Just inside Lincoln Financial Field, a statue immortalizes his connection to one of the most iconic plays and games in NFL history. The statue is not merely a tribute to Foles the player, but also a monument to leadership, resilience, and triumph against odds.
Another key number that has not seen reassignment is No. 25, once worn by LeSean McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher. Like Foles, McCoy’s contributions to the Eagles have left an indelible mark, prompting the franchise to hold off on reissuing his number, despite McCoy’s departure from the team.
As the Eagles continue to forge their path in the NFL, the legacy of players like Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy remains deeply interwoven into the team's identity. The reverence with which their numbers are treated is a testament to their impact on the team and the sport. While official retirement of a number signifies a formal recognition of excellence, these unofficial choices by the franchise also tell a story, one of respect and acknowledgment of extraordinary contributions.
Josh Sweat, in expressing his desire to wear iconic numbers, encapsulates a common sentiment among new players who wish to forge their own legacy while paying homage to the legends who came before them. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he said, emphasizing the balance between honoring the past and stepping into the future.
The stories behind these jersey numbers, both retired and unofficially hallowed, continue to engage and inspire both the players who wear them and the fans who cheer them on. It is this rich tapestry of history, achievement, and reverence that makes the Philadelphia Eagles a true staple in the NFL community.