Philadelphia Eagles: A Legacy Carved in Numbers and Moments
For a franchise that has spanned 91 seasons, the Philadelphia Eagles have become a repository of iconic numbers and legendary moments. The story of Nick Foles and the No. 9 jersey stands as one of the most compelling chapters.
Nick Foles is more than just a name in the Eagles roster; he's a symbol of triumph and hope. His tenure with the Eagles is highlighted by an unforgettable postseason performance, boasting a 72.6% completion rate and a remarkable 115.7 passer rating. However, what etched his name in the annals of NFL history were the dazzling stats from Super Bowl LII. Foles racked up 373 passing yards, threw three touchdowns, and even caught a touchdown pass in a play that is forever immortalized as the "Philly Special".
The departure of Foles in 2018 left big shoes to fill and a number that seems to be held in reverence by the team. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Josh Sweat remarked, reflecting the deep respect the franchise has for Foles' contributions. The Eagles have not formally retired No. 9, but the number remains unassigned, a silent tribute to Foles' legacy.
Josh Sweat, who initially donned No. 75 when he was drafted in 2018, later switched to No. 94. His initial choices for a jersey number also hit historical roadblocks. "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back," he quipped, referring to the legacy of Steve Van Buren, an Eagles legend whose number has been officially retired.
This cautious approach to jersey numbers underscores the rich heritage the Philadelphia Eagles preserve. Alongside Van Buren's No. 15, the team has formally retired eight other numbers: Donovan McNabb (5), Brian Dawkins (20), Tom Brookshier (40), Pete Pihos (44), Chuck Bednarik (60), Al Wistert (70), Reggie White (92), and Jerome Brown (99). Each of these numbers tells a story of excellence, perseverance, and devotion to the team.
Another number that hasn't seen reassignment is No. 25, worn by LeSean McCoy, the franchise's all-time leading rusher. Though it’s not officially retired, No. 25’s absence from the current roster signifies the high esteem in which McCoy's contributions are held.
The reverence for these numbers is not just about the past. They serve as inspirations for the present and future generations of players donning the Eagles jersey. Beneath the high ceiling of Lincoln Financial Field, where a statue of Nick Foles stands as a reminder of the “Philly Special” and Super Bowl LII glory, the spirit of the franchise continues to inspire.
Josh Sweat’s journey with the Eagles exemplifies this generational respect and adaptation. His statement, "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," resonates with many players who have found themselves having to adapt and create their own legacies within the expansive history of the team. While numbers may carry the weight of expectations and history, they also offer a canvas for new memories and achievements.
The Philadelphia Eagles are not just a football team; they are a tapestry of stories, legacies, and moments that fuel the passion of their fan base. The reverence for certain jersey numbers symbolizes more than just respect for past players—it connects today's team with the rich history that defines what it means to be an Eagle. As each season passes, new stories will be added, and maybe, someday, other numbers will join the pantheon of the retired. Until then, each player who steps onto the field carries a part of this storied history, striving to make their own mark in the Eagles' illustrious legacy.