PHILADELPHIA - Rooki<0xE2><0x80><0x8B>e wide receiver Makai Lemon, a first-round selection by the Eagles, has announced he will wear jersey number 9 for the upcoming season. This marks the first time the number, famously worn by Super Bowl LII MVP Nick Foles, will be assigned to an Eagles player since Foles' departure from the team. Lemon confirmed his decision on Thursday during his introductory press conference, stating he spoke with Foles and received his "blessing" to wear the number.
Lemon’s choice to wear No. 9 carries significant symbolic weight, immediately connecting him to one of the most celebrated figures in franchise history. The number has remained unclaimed since Foles’ retirement, seemingly reserved for a player deemed worthy of such a legacy. Lemon expressed his intent to honor the legacy, saying, "I’ll represent the number 9 well, wearing it and representing the team well."
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The decision arrives as Lemon, the Eagles' third receiver taken in the 2026 NFL Draft, joins the team after signing his four-year rookie contract. Lemon’s college production at USC, where he recorded 79 catches for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, positions him as a potential key contributor to the Eagles' offense.
The team drafted Lemon with the 20th overall pick. His arrival has sparked discussions about his potential role, particularly in light of offseason moves and speculation regarding other roster members. Some analysts note that while primarily a slot receiver in college, Lemon possesses strengths in route running and contested catches.
A Number with History
The choice of No. 9 is steeped in Philadelphia Eagles lore, largely due to Nick Foles' pivotal role in the team's Super Bowl LII victory. Foles, a franchise legend, delivered a memorable performance in the championship game, etching his name into the team's history. The jersey number has since remained a quiet testament to that achievement, until Lemon’s selection.
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Lemon's acquisition by the Eagles was itself a point of intrigue, as he was reportedly on the phone with the Pittsburgh Steelers when the Eagles traded up to select him. His college statistics at USC further highlight his potential impact.
