For Philadelphia Eagles fans, the No. 9 jersey holds a special place in their hearts. The number that Nick Foles donned during his legendary run with the team has not been reassigned since his departure in 2018. Foles, the only quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl title, has etched his name in the franchise's storied history.
Foles' postseason performance is the stuff of legend. With a 72.6% completion rate and a 115.7 passer rating, his numbers speak volumes about his efficiency and prowess under pressure. The pinnacle of his career came in Super Bowl LII, where he amassed 373 yards and threw three touchdowns, even catching a touchdown in the game. That catch, known as the "Philly Special," has become an iconic moment not just in Eagles' history, but in NFL lore.
Adding to the mystique surrounding Foles' legacy is the fact that his jersey number has not been reassigned. Defensive end Josh Sweat, who wore No. 75 when he was drafted in 2018 and later switched to No. 94, expressed his desire to wear No. 9. "I wore 9 in high school and wore 9 in college. But I can't get 9 now because it's retired," Sweat said. The sentiment reveals just how much respect and reverence the franchise and its players have for Foles.
No. 9: Unofficially Retired?
While not formally retired, the Eagles regard Foles' No. 9 jersey with the same respect they reserve for officially retired numbers. This treatment places Foles in the company of 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) – all legends whose numbers will never be worn by another Eagle.
The respect extends to other iconic players as well. For instance, LeSean McCoy, the franchise's all-time leading rusher, also has his jersey number, 25, left unissued since his departure. These gestures reflect the Eagles' deep-rooted tradition of honoring their standout players, preserving their legacies within the fabric of the franchise.
The Weight of History
For Josh Sweat, who originally coveted No. 9, the challenge of finding a number that resonated with him was met with obstacles. "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 quipped, pointing to the long legacy of Steve Van Buren. Van Buren's contributions to the team in the 1940s still resonate today, demonstrating the enduring impact of past players on the current roster.
Sweat's journey reflects the broader narrative of how new talent must navigate the rich history of a franchise steeped in tradition. "I just needed a change. Just wanted to feel new," Sweat said about his eventual decision to switch to No. 94. His words capture the balance of respecting the past while forging one's own identity within the team.
A Living Tribute
Foles' legacy isn’t just limited to an unissued jersey number. He is immortalized with a statue inside Lincoln Financial Field, a fitting tribute to the man who ended the Eagles' long wait for a Super Bowl title. This honor ensures that future generations of Eagles fans will remember the quarterback who delivered when it mattered the most.
The reverence for Nick Foles and other Eagles legends highlights the franchise's commitment to honoring its history while building for the future. As new players join the ranks, they do so with the understanding that they are part of a legacy filled with remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments. For Eagles fans, the No. 9 jersey remains a symbol of hope, triumph, and the enduring power of legacy.