The Philadelphia Eagles, a franchise rich in history and tradition, have seen many players donning their iconic green jerseys over the past 91 seasons. Among these players, Nick Foles stands out not only for his contributions on the field but also for the special place he holds in the hearts of Eagles fans and the team’s hall of fame.
Nick Foles: Legend in No. 9
Nick Foles was the last player to wear the No. 9 jersey for the Philadelphia Eagles, and he wore it with a remarkable degree of excellence and pride. Most notably, Foles is the only quarterback who has led the Eagles to a Super Bowl title. His postseason statistics during that unforgettable run are eye-catching: a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating, statistics that reflect both his poise and precision under pressure.
In Super Bowl LII, Foles delivered a performance for the ages. He racked up 373 yards, threw three touchdowns, and even caught a touchdown pass in that historic game. This touchdown catch, famously known as the "Philly Special," showcased the versatility and audacity that defined Foles' playstyle and etched his name in NFL lore.
No. 9: A Jersey Like No Other
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the Eagles have not reassigned No. 9, signifying an unofficial retirement of the number. While the Eagles have formally retired nine other numbers, including the likes of Donovan McNabb (5) and Reggie White (92), Foles' No. 9 holds a certain revered status within the organization. When asked about the number, Eagles defensive end Josh Sweat confirmed its retired status.
"I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," said Sweat, indicating the unspoken reverence the team has for Foles’ contributions.
The Legacy of Unofficial Retirements
Nick Foles’ influence goes beyond the digits stitched onto an Eagles jersey. The franchise has also refrained from reissuing No. 25 since LeSean McCoy's departure, another indicator of a player’s profound impact. McCoy, who holds the title as the Eagles' all-time leading rusher, exemplifies how certain jerseys hold a symbolic weight that leads teams to quietly retire them from circulation.
Josh Sweat's Journey with Jersey Numbers
Drafted by the Eagles in 2018, Josh Sweat began his professional career wearing No. 75, later switching to No. 94. The defensive end’s desire to wear No. 9 underscores the significance that specific jersey numbers can have for players.
"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 remarked, referring to another iconic number retired by the team.
Despite not getting his desired numbers, Sweat embraced the change. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he explained about his decision to switch from No. 75 to No. 94.
A Monument to Excellence
The Eagles immortalized Nick Foles' contribution to the franchise in another enduring way—a statue. Located inside Lincoln Financial Field, the statue serves as a lasting tribute to Foles and the unforgettable "Philly Special" play, a symbol of ingenuity and success that is now part of Philadelphia Eagles lore.
In a sport celebrated for its rich history and iconic moments, the stories behind the numbers players wear—or don't wear—add another layer of legacy and lore. For the Philadelphia Eagles, Nick Foles’ No. 9 Jersey will always be more than just a number. It stands as a testament to triumph, defying the odds, and etching a city’s name in the annals of NFL history.