Philadelphia Eagles No. 9: A Sacred Jersey
The Philadelphia Eagles, an iconic franchise with a storied history spanning 91 seasons, hold certain elements of their past in exceptional reverence. Among those is the No. 9 jersey, last worn by quarterback Nick Foles, the man who led the team to its only Super Bowl title. Since his departure in 2018, the jersey has not been reassigned, and it carries a significance that seems almost sacred within the Eagles organization.
Foles' contributions to Eagles lore are nothing short of legendary. During the team's remarkable run in the 2017 postseason, Foles achieved a stellar 72.6% completion rate and a passer rating of 115.7. Yet, it was his performance in Super Bowl LII that etched his name into the annals of NFL history. Foles threw for 373 yards and scored three touchdowns against the formidable New England Patriots. He also executed one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history, catching a touchdown pass in a trick play known widely as the "Philly Special." This maneuver not only galvanized his teammates but also captivated football fans around the world.
The Call to Retire No. 9
Upon Foles' exit, the Eagles chose not to reassign his iconic No. 9 jersey. While this decision has not been formally announced as a retirement, the act carries immense symbolic weight. Defensively, Josh Sweat, an aspiring Eagles player, remarked on the jersey's status. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat stated. His comments underline the high regard in which Foles' contributions are held by the organization.
Consistently seeking a connection to the franchise’s storied history, Sweat initially aspired to wear No. 15. However, that number has been officially retired since 1950, honoring the contributions of Steve Van Buren. "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 joked. After a period of adjustment, he settled with No. 75 and later No. 94, signifying his acceptance into the Eagles' defensive line-up.
The Jersey Shrine
The Eagles have a tradition of honoring their legends, having formally retired nine numbers. These include Donovan McNabb’s No. 5, Steve Van Buren’s No. 15, and Reggie White’s No. 92, among others. The potential non-reissue of Foles' No. 9 suggests that it might quietly join these hallowed ranks. If not officially retired, it is at the very least held in a category of profound respect, echoing the player's indelible impact on the franchise.
Foles' legacy has not only been etched in fabric and statistics but also cast in bronze. A statue of Foles stands proudly inside Lincoln Financial Field, a testament to his iconic "Philly Special" play and Super Bowl MVP performance. This statue serves as a daily reminder to fans and players alike of the triumph and resilience that defined the team's historic 2017 season. This visible homage captures in perpetuity the moment when Foles and the Eagles ascended to the pinnacle of the NFL.
Beyond the Numbers
The reverence shown towards Foles and his cherished number speaks volumes about the culture and values of the Eagles organization. Respect for history and heroes past is integral to the team’s identity, creating a bridge between generations of players and fans. Such acts of remembrance ensure that Nick Foles' legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
It's not just about the statistics or victories; it's about the spirit and unity that legends like Foles bring to the team. As the Eagles look towards the future, they remain anchored by a sense of their rich past. Each player stepping onto the field at Lincoln Financial Field does so under the watchful gaze of those who have left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Foles' contribution, encapsulated by his performance as the architect of the team's only Super Bowl win, ensures that his legacy—and the No. 9 jersey—will forever be a source of pride and honor for the Philadelphia Eagles.