The legacy of the Philadelphia Eagles is a tapestry woven with monumental moments, legendary players, and iconic jerseys that have become synonymous with the team’s storied history. With 91 seasons under its belt, the franchise has seen its share of ups and downs, but few moments shine as brightly as their Super Bowl LII victory.
The Legendary No. 9
Nick Foles, the quarterback who led the Eagles to that historic win, has become an emblem of perseverance and excellence. Wearing the No. 9 jersey, Foles not only guided the team to victory but also posted remarkable postseason statistics, boasting a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating. His performance in Super Bowl LII was nothing short of extraordinary, amassing 373 passing yards, three touchdowns, and even catching a touchdown pass in the play famously known as the "Philly Special".
Since his departure in 2018, the Eagles have not reassigned the No. 9 jersey, effectively treating it as retired, a testament to Foles' monumental impact on the franchise.
Josh Sweat's Quest for a Number
Defensive end Josh Sweat's experience underscores the reverence the Eagles and their fans have for certain jersey numbers. Drafted in 2018, Sweat initially donned No. 75 before switching to No. 94. His pursuit of the No. 9 jersey, however, was thwarted by the team’s unwritten rule about reassignment. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat explained, acknowledging the number's sacred status post-Foles.
Sweat's comments highlight a broader issue of jersey preservation within franchises. He quipped about another cherished number, saying, "I wanted No. 15, but that thing was retired in like 1950. I mean, y'all need to go ahead and bring that back." This tongue-in-cheek remark sheds light on the weight historic numbers carry within the Eagles organization.
Honoring the Greats
The Eagles have formally retired nine numbers, an acknowledgment reserved for those whose contributions have transcended the field. The esteemed list includes 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). Each number tells a story of a player whose prowess and leadership left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Beyond these officially retired numbers, the team also appears to have an informal practice of honoring significant players by not reissuing their jerseys, as seen with Foles' No. 9 and LeSean McCoy's No. 25. McCoy, the franchise's all-time leading rusher, has similarly had his number remain unused since his departure.
Legacy in Bronze
Nick Foles' enduring legacy isn’t just confined to his jersey. A statue of Foles, commemorating his pivotal role in the Eagles' Super Bowl victory, stands proudly inside Lincoln Financial Field. This statue serves as a physical reminder of one of the most triumphant chapters in Eagles history and a source of inspiration for both players and fans alike.
For Josh Sweat, donning a new number wasn’t just a necessity but also a chance for reinvention. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," he said, indicating his readiness to carve his own path while respecting the hallowed numbers of Eagles legends.
The Philadelphia Eagles have built a rich legacy over nearly a century, characterized by storied triumphs, legendary figures, and iconic jersey numbers that symbolize not just individual greatness but a collective history of resilience and victory. As the team continues to forge ahead, these symbols of the past will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, both on and off the field.