A sad day for all in Philadelphia, but one filled with so much nostalgia and happiness. Former Eagles QB Nick Foles has announced his retirement from the NFL. He will officially retire as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, the team that drafted him, and with whom he won a Super Bowl with back in 2017.
Legendary QB Nick Foles retires from the NFL
Nick Foles will be horned in front of the rampant Eagles fanbase at the teams’ home opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
“Nick Foles always carried himself with the utmost class and integrity, demonstrating through his actions, both on and off the field, what it meant to be a Philadelphia Eagle,” said Jeffrey Lurie, Philadelphia Eagles Chairman and CEO via a press release from the team.
“He was the ultimate competitor, an inspiring teammate, a true representative of our city, and of course, a Super Bowl champion. As important as he was under center, it was his positive demeanor, approachability, and kindness toward others that resonated with everyone and continues to speak to his great character. We congratulate the Foles family on Nick’s celebrated career and retirement.”
Foles was drafted back in 2012 in the third round and the seeds of history started to be sewn early. After being thrust into action a short while later, the young quarterback broke records in 2013, firing a 7-touchdown game against the Raiders, and earning a Pro Bowl nod. He led the league in passer-rating that year and put up an astonishing 27-2 TD/INT ratio – one that remains unchallenged in NFL record books.
Fast forward past a sad departure to the Rams and Nick Foles returned to the Eagles as a backup in 2017. When Carson Wentz tore his ACL in the tail end of what was a simply remarkable campaign, Foles stepped up and the rest is history. Foles pushed his team all the way to the Super Bowl and did the unthinkable, dethroning the New England Patriots, completing 28-43 passes and throwing for 3 touchdowns in the process, garnering MVP Honors as a result. The Philadelphia Eagles won their first ever Lombardi Trophy with Foles at the helm, and his legendary ‘Philly Philly’ audible will live on forever.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to retire as a Philadelphia Eagle,” said Foles. “The City of Brotherly Love has always felt like home to me as an NFL player. Philadelphia is a city I truly love, and it has been an honor to wear the Eagles jersey. Thank you, Philadelphia, for embracing me and making me a part of your family forever. Your love and support have meant the world. Fly, Eagles, Fly!”
Nick Foles would later play for the Jaguars, Bears and Colts. He started 3 games for Indy in 2022, a year that would ultimately be his last year as an NFL quarterback.
Foles retires as the Eagles’ leader in passer-rating and ends his career third all-time in completion percentage. He recorded 58 touchdowns in 40 games, cementing a legacy that will likely never be topped.
The City of Philadelphia will always hold Foles in the highest of regards. A legendary player and a man whose persona off the field was just as lovable as his achievements on it. Thank you for everything, Nick.
REUTERS/Chris Wattie
