The Philadelphia Eagles have one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, but the organization has only retired nine jersey numbers over the years.
- 5: Donovan McNabb
- 15: Steve Van Buren
- 20: Brian Dawkins
- 40: Tom Brookshier
- 44: Pete Retzlaff
- 60: Chuck Bednarik
- 70: Al Wistert
- 92: Reggie White
- 99: Jerome Brown
Jason Kelce’s No. 62 and Fletcher Cox’s No. 91 jerseys will almost certainly join the growing list, but what about the No. 9 jersey worn by Super Bowl-winning quarterback Nick Foles?
Foles, 30, had a postseason record of 4-1 during his final two years in Philadelphia, including winning MVP of Super Bowl LII. In place of an injured Carson Wentz, Foles went 6-2 in the regular season in his final two years in Philadelphia, leading the Eagles to two playoff berths.
Fast forward to 2024, and defensive end Josh Sweat switched jersey numbers from 94 to 19. After Monday’s practice, Sweat told the media that he wanted 15 (Steve Van Buren). Still, that number is retired, and without stating as such, the pass rusher made it seem as if No. 9 wasn’t available either, unofficially.
Josh Sweat he switched to No. 19 because he wanted a change
No history or reason for 19. It was just available. Says he wanted 15 but it was retired. Also sounds like he couldn’t get No. 9. pic.twitter.com/8RnZGCQynP
— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) July 29, 2024
Sweat wore the No. 9 at Oscar F. Smith High School in Chesapeake, Virginia, and during his tenure at Florida State. Whether he was joking or not, Sweat insinuated that the number was retired.
Nick Foles played 11 seasons for six teams, including the Eagles and Bears.
Foles has passed for 14,227 yards and 82 touchdowns over his career, earning one Pro Bowl nomination, the Super Bowl MVP, and the Lombardi Trophy.
