Reflection on Eagles' Iconic No. 9 Jersey
In the history of the Philadelphia Eagles, few jerseys have achieved the legendary status of No. 9. Spanning 91 seasons, the franchise boasts numerous moments of glory, but the tale of Nick Foles and his contribution to the team's success stands out distinctly.
The Legend of Nick Foles
Nick Foles remains the last player to don the No. 9 jersey, a number he carried with pride and purpose. The highlight of his career with the Eagles undoubtedly came during Super Bowl LII. In that monumental game, Foles delivered a performance for the ages, throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Adding to the lore, he caught a touchdown in a play that has now become legendary in NFL circles: the "Philly Special". His efforts not only sealed the victory but also solidified his name in the annals of Philadelphia sports history.
His postseason stats further cement his legacy, achieving an impressive 72.6% completion rate and a stellar 115.7 passer rating. Such numbers underscore why Foles is the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl title. His influence on the team and the city is immortalized with a statue inside Lincoln Financial Field, a constant reminder of his contribution and the spirit of the franchise.
The Jersey's Sacred Status
Since Foles' departure in 2018, the No. 9 jersey has not been reassigned by the Eagles. This decision reflects the deep respect and admiration the organization holds for Foles and his achievements. Josh Sweat, a player who joined the Eagles in 2018, aspired to wear No. 9 but found it unavailable. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat disclosed. His words indicate the reverence the franchise has for the jersey, treating it as though it were officially retired.
The Eagles have an official list of nine retired numbers, including legends like Donovan McNabb (5), Steve Van Buren (15), Brian Dawkins (20), and Reggie White (92), among others. These players have all left an indelible mark on the team, and their numbers are a testament to their contributions.
Josh Sweat's Journey
Josh Sweat's desire for his favored numbers didn't stop at 9. He expressed a longing for 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." Eventually, after starting his Eagles career with No. 75, he later switched to No. 94, marking his journey with a statement of change: "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new."
A Tradition of Respect
The Eagles' decision not to reissue Nick Foles' number is a part of a broader tradition of honoring those who have contributed significantly to the team’s legacy. Another notable instance is No. 25, LeSean McCoy's jersey, which has also not been reassigned since his departure. McCoy, the Eagles' all-time leading rusher, earned this honor through his remarkable performances and dedication to the franchise.
These choices reflect the organization’s deep respect for its history and the individuals who have shaped its path. It's a gesture that embodies the spirit of the team and its commitment to celebrating its heroes.
Immortalizing Heroes
The legacy of No. 9 and Nick Foles is a chapter in the rich tapestry of the Philadelphia Eagles. It stands as a symbol of victory, perseverance, and the high regard in which the organization holds its standout players. The narratives of these players, their stats, and their iconic moments will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that their contributions are remembered and revered. As the Eagles continue their journey, the stories of their heroes remain a beacon of the franchise's storied past and its promising future.