Nick Foles wanted his NFL retirement to be memorable and uniquely his own. True to his character, he has achieved just that, concluding his illustrious career on his own terms.
An 11-year veteran of the NFL and renowned for leading the Philadelphia Eagles to victory in Super Bowl LII, Foles has announced his retirement from professional football as a member of the Eagles. His decision to retire as a Philadelphia Eagle reflects his deep connection with the city and the team that played such a significant role in his career.
Foles expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to retire as a Philadelphia Eagle. 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
Foles’ most celebrated moment came late in the 2017 NFL season. Stepping in as the Eagles’ full-time starter, he played a pivotal role in securing a 41-33 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII. During the game, Foles completed 28 of 43 passes for 373 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, earning a passer rating of 106.1. His performance earned him the Super Bowl LII MVP award. A highlight of the game was his memorable touchdown catch during the “Philly Special” play, where he caught a pass from tight end Trey Burton, cementing the Eagles’ lead at halftime. Foles made history as the first backup quarterback to win the Super Bowl since Tom Brady achieved the feat in 2001.
Jeffrey Lurie, Chairman and CEO of the Philadelphia Eagles, praised Foles for his contributions both on and off the field. “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,” Lurie said. “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.”
Drafted by the Eagles in the third round (88th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft from the University of Arizona, Foles had a distinguished career that spanned over a decade. His career included two stints with the Atlanta Falcons (2012-14, 2017-18) and notable achievements such as being selected to the Pro Bowl following the 2013 season. That year, he led the league in passer rating with an exceptional 119.2 and set the record for the best single-season touchdown-to-interception ratio in NFL history at 27-2. He was the first quarterback—and remains one of the few—to throw 20 or more touchdowns in a season with no more than two interceptions.
In one of his most impressive performances, Foles threw seven touchdown passes in a game against the Oakland Raiders on November 3, 2013, a feat he achieved without throwing an interception. This performance placed him among a rare group of quarterbacks who have managed to throw seven touchdowns in a single game, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Peyton Manning and Y.A. Tittle.
Foles’ retirement marks the end of a remarkable career defined by significant achievements and memorable moments, underscoring his legacy as a beloved figure in Philadelphia and the NFL.
