Nick Foles, the quarterback who etched his name into Philadelphia Eagles lore with a Super Bowl MVP performance, has officially retired from the NFL, choosing to do so as a member of the team where he achieved his greatest triumph. The 35-year-old was honored at Lincoln Financial Field on Monday night, a fitting tribute to the man who delivered the franchise its first-ever Lombardi Trophy.
Foles’ journey with the Eagles has been one of both unexpected brilliance and unwavering loyalty. Initially serving as a backup to Carson Wentz in the 2017 season, Foles stepped into the spotlight when Wentz suffered a season-ending injury in Week 14. What followed was a storybook run, culminating in a Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots. Foles’ performance in that game, where he threw for 373 yards and three touchdowns, including the iconic “Philly Special” trick play, cemented his place as a Philadelphia legend.
Though his time as the Eagles’ starting quarterback was relatively short-lived, his impact resonated far beyond those few seasons. He returned to the team in 2018, once again filling in for an injured Wentz and leading the Eagles to a playoff berth. His departure in 2019 marked the end of an era, but the bond between Foles and the city of Philadelphia remained strong.
Foles’ retirement ceremony on Monday night was a testament to that enduring connection. He served as an honorary captain for the Eagles’ home opener against the Atlanta Falcons, leading the crowd in a rousing rendition of “Fly, Eagles, Fly.” The roar of the crowd as Foles took the field was a clear indication of the deep appreciation Philadelphia fans hold for their Super Bowl hero.
In his retirement speech earlier in the day, Foles expressed his gratitude for the support he received from the city and the organization. He recounted a memorable moment during the NFC Championship game against the Minnesota Vikings, where the energy of the crowd was so palpable that he paused to take it all in, realizing the privilege of playing for such a passionate fan base.
Foles’ post-Eagles career saw him don the jerseys of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Chicago Bears, and Indianapolis Colts, but it was his time in Philadelphia that defined his legacy. He leaves the NFL with a Super Bowl ring, a Super Bowl MVP award, and a Pro Bowl selection to his name, but perhaps his most enduring achievement is the indelible mark he left on the Philadelphia Eagles and their devoted fans.
While his playing days are over, Foles has expressed his desire to pursue a career as a pastor, a path that reflects his deep faith and commitment to serving others. As he embarks on this new chapter, the echoes of “Fly, Eagles, Fly” and the memory of that magical Super Bowl run will undoubtedly accompany him, a reminder of the extraordinary impact he had on the game and the city he helped conquer.
