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{{Infobox LocalBusiness
{{Infobox SportsTeam
| name = Philadelphia Eagles
| name = Philadelphia Eagles
| image =
| sport = Football (NFL)
| image_caption = Philadelphia Eagles logo
| founded = 1933
| type = Professional football team (NFL)
| stadium = [[Lincoln Financial Field]]
| address = 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way
| capacity = 69,796
| championships = 4 (1948, 1949, 1960, 1 Super Bowl)
| super_bowls = 1 (Super Bowl LII)
| colors = Midnight Green, Black, Silver, White
| mascot = Swoop
| owner = Jeffrey Lurie
| neighborhood = South Philadelphia
| neighborhood = South Philadelphia
| coordinates = 39.9008,-75.1675
| phone = (215) 463-5500
| website = https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com
| website = https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com
| established = 1933
| founder = Bert Bell, Lud Wray
| owner = Jeffrey Lurie (since 1994)
| employees =
| hours =
| products = NFL football
| status = Active
}}
}}


The '''Philadelphia Eagles''' are a professional American football team based in [[Philadelphia]]. The Eagles compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the National Football Conference (NFC) East division. Founded in 1933, the team has won two Super Bowl championships and three pre-merger NFL Championships, making them one of the most successful franchises in league history.<ref name="britannica">{{cite web |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Philadelphia-Eagles |title=Philadelphia Eagles |publisher=Encyclopedia Britannica |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
The '''Philadelphia Eagles''' are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, competing in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the NFC East division. Founded in 1933, the Eagles are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history and command one of the most passionate—and infamous—fanbases in professional sports.<ref name="eagles">{{cite web |url=https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com |title=Philadelphia Eagles |publisher=Philadelphia Eagles |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>


The Eagles play their home games at [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[South Philadelphia]], a 69,176-seat stadium known for its passionate and notoriously intense fanbase. The team's rivalry with the [[Dallas Cowboys]] is considered one of the fiercest in professional sports, and Eagles fans are renowned throughout the NFL for their dedication, knowledge of the game, and occasionally rowdy behavior.
The Eagles have won four NFL championships, including Super Bowl LII following the 2017 season, when backup quarterback Nick Foles led a stunning upset over the New England Patriots. The team plays at [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in the [[South Philadelphia Sports Complex]].


== History ==
== History ==


=== Founding ===
=== Founding and Early Years (1933-1957) ===


The Philadelphia Eagles were founded in '''1933''' by Bert Bell and Lud Wray as a replacement for the bankrupt Frankford Yellow Jackets, which had folded in 1931. Bell and Wray purchased the franchise rights for $2,500 (equivalent to approximately $60,000 today).<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Eagles |title=Philadelphia Eagles |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
The Eagles were founded in 1933 as part of the NFL's expansion during the Great Depression:


The team was named after the Blue Eagle, the symbol of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's National Recovery Administration (NRA), a New Deal agency designed to stimulate economic recovery during the Great Depression. The Blue Eagle represented American industry and workers coming together, making it a fitting symbol for a Philadelphia sports franchise.
* '''1933''' — Franchise established for $2,500, named for the Blue Eagle symbol of the National Recovery Administration (NRA)
* '''Bert Bell''' — Co-founder, later NFL Commissioner
* Early years marked by struggle and losing seasons
* '''1943''' — Merged with Pittsburgh Steelers as "Steagles" due to WWII player shortages
* '''1944''' — Merged with Chicago Cardinals as "Card-Pitt"


=== Early Years and Championships ===
=== The Championship Era (1947-1960) ===


The Eagles struggled in their early years, posting losing records throughout the 1930s. The franchise's fortunes began to change in the late 1940s under coach Earle "Greasy" Neale, who led the team to consecutive NFL Championships in 1948 and 1949—the only back-to-back titles in franchise history.
The Eagles emerged as a dynasty in the late 1940s and 1950s:


The Eagles won their third NFL Championship in 1960, defeating Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers 17-13 in Philadelphia. This remains the only postseason loss in Lombardi's legendary coaching career.
==== Back-to-Back Championships ====


=== The Steagles (1943) ===
* '''1948 NFL Championship''' — Defeated Chicago Cardinals 7-0 in a blizzard at Shibe Park
* '''1949 NFL Championship''' — Defeated Los Angeles Rams 14-0 in rain at LA Coliseum
* Only team to win back-to-back championship games by shutout
* Featured Hall of Famers Steve Van Buren, Pete Pihos, Chuck Bednarik


The '''Steagles''' were a temporary merger between the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1943 NFL season. With many players serving in World War II, both franchises lacked enough players to field complete rosters. The NFL approved a one-year merger, creating the "Phil-Pitt Steagles" (often shortened to Steagles).
==== The 1960 Championship ====


The combined team, coached by Walt Kiesling of Pittsburgh and Greasy Neale of Philadelphia, played its home games at both Philadelphia's Shibe Park and Pittsburgh's Forbes Field. The Steagles finished the 1943 season with a 5-4-1 record. After the season, both franchises resumed independent operations—the Eagles returned to solo play in 1944, while the Steelers merged with the Chicago Cardinals for that year.
* '''1960 NFL Championship''' — Defeated Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers 17-13
* '''Chuck Bednarik's''' famous tackle of Jim Taylor on the final play
* Last NFL championship game Lombardi ever lost
* Featured Norm Van Brocklin, Tommy McDonald, Bednarik
* Remains a defining moment in franchise history


=== Super Bowl Era ===
=== The Wilderness Years (1961-1978) ===


The Eagles reached their first Super Bowl following the 1980 season, losing Super Bowl XV to the Oakland Raiders 27-10. The team returned to the Super Bowl after the 2004 season but lost Super Bowl XXXIX to the New England Patriots 24-21 in a heartbreaking defeat.
Following the 1960 championship, the Eagles entered a prolonged period of struggle:


== Super Bowl Championships ==
* No playoff appearances for 18 years
* Multiple coaching changes
* Move from Franklin Field to Veterans Stadium (1971)
* Some notable players: Harold Carmichael, Bill Bergey, Wilbert Montgomery


=== Championships ===
=== The Vermeil Era (1976-1982) ===


The Philadelphia Eagles have won '''two Super Bowl championships''':
Dick Vermeil brought the Eagles back to prominence:


* '''Super Bowl LII''' (February 4, 2018) - Eagles 41, New England Patriots 33
* '''1976''' — Vermeil hired from UCLA
* '''Super Bowl LIX''' (February 2025) - Eagles 40, Kansas City Chiefs 22
* '''1978''' — First playoff appearance since 1960
* '''1979''' — "Miracle at the Meadowlands" — Herman Edwards' fumble return for touchdown
* '''1980''' — Super Bowl XV appearance (lost to Oakland Raiders 27-10)
* '''Wilbert Montgomery''', '''Ron Jaworski''', '''Harold Carmichael*** starred
* Vermeil resigned in 1982 citing burnout


=== Super Bowl LII (2017 Season) ===
=== The Buddy Ryan Era (1986-1990) ===


The Eagles won their first Super Bowl on '''February 4, 2018''', defeating the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, filling in for injured starter Carson Wentz, was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns, including a trick play touchdown reception known as the "Philly Special."<ref name="sportskeeda">{{cite web |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles-super-bowl-wins |title=Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Wins History |publisher=Sportskeeda |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
Buddy Ryan brought swagger and a ferocious defense:


The Eagles won their second Super Bowl in '''February 2025''', defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX. Quarterback Jalen Hurts was named Super Bowl MVP.
* '''1986''' — Ryan hired from Chicago Bears (where he designed the "46 Defense")
* Built one of the NFL's most feared defenses
* '''Reggie White''', '''Jerome Brown''', '''Seth Joyner''', '''Clyde Simmons'''
* Three consecutive playoff appearances (1988-1990)
* Famous for trash talk and physical play
* "Bounty Bowl" controversy with Dallas Cowboys
* '''Fog Bowl''' (1988) — Playoff loss to Chicago in dense fog
* Never advanced past divisional round; fired after 1990 season
 
=== The Kotite and Rhodes Years (1991-1998) ===
 
A period of transition and frustration:
 
* '''Rich Kotite (1991-1994)''' — Promising start, collapsed finish
* '''Jerome Brown's death (1992)*** — Beloved defensive tackle killed in car accident
* '''Reggie White's departure (1993)''' — Signed with Green Bay as free agent
* '''Ray Rhodes (1995-1998)''' — 1995 Coach of the Year, declined afterward
* Move to NFC East's new alignment
 
=== The Andy Reid Dynasty (1999-2012) ===
 
Andy Reid transformed the Eagles into perennial contenders:
 
==== Building a Powerhouse ====
 
* '''1999''' — Reid hired; drafted '''Donovan McNabb''' #2 overall
* '''2000*** — First playoff appearance under Reid
* '''2001-2004''' — Four consecutive NFC Championship games
* '''2002, 2003, 2004''' — Lost three straight NFC Championships
 
==== Finally Breaking Through ====
 
* '''2004 Season''' — Acquired '''Terrell Owens'''
* '''2004 NFC Championship''' — Defeated Atlanta Falcons 27-10
* '''Super Bowl XXXIX (February 2005)''' — Lost to New England Patriots 24-21
* Controversial final drive, clock management questioned
 
==== The Later Reid Years ====
 
* '''2005-2012*** — Continued competitiveness but no Super Bowl return
* '''Michael Vick*** (2009-2013) — Controversial signing, spectacular 2010 season
* '''DeSean Jackson's*** "Miracle at the New Meadowlands" (2010) — Punt return to beat Giants
* '''2012''' — Reid's final season, fired after 14 years
 
==== Reid Era Legacy ====
 
* 140-102-1 regular season record
* 10 playoff appearances in 14 seasons
* 4 NFC Championship appearances
* Longest-tenured coach in Eagles history
* Revolutionized West Coast Offense concepts
 
=== Chip Kelly's Experiment (2013-2015) ===
 
Chip Kelly brought innovation and controversy:
 
* '''2013-2014''' — Up-tempo offense, back-to-back 10-win seasons
* '''2015''' — Given personnel control; made dramatic roster changes
* Traded DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, Nick Foles
* Acquired Sam Bradford, DeMarco Murray, Kiko Alonso
* Fired after 6-9 start to 2015; finished by Pat Shurmur
* Brief, polarizing tenure
 
=== Super Bowl Champions (2016-Present) ===
 
==== Doug Pederson and Super Bowl LII ====
 
* '''2016''' — Doug Pederson hired; Carson Wentz drafted #2 overall
* '''2017 Regular Season''' — Wentz emerged as MVP candidate
* '''Week 14, 2017''' — Wentz tears ACL; Nick Foles takes over
* '''Playoffs''' — Foles leads Eagles as underdogs
 
===== Super Bowl LII =====
 
'''February 4, 2018 — Philadelphia Eagles 41, New England Patriots 33'''
 
One of the greatest Super Bowls ever played:
 
* Eagles entered as 5.5-point underdogs to dynasty Patriots
* '''The Philly Special''' — Foles catches touchdown pass on 4th-and-goal trick play
* Foles threw for 373 yards, 3 touchdowns
* '''Nick Foles*** named Super Bowl MVP
* Defense forced late fumble to seal victory
* First Super Bowl championship in franchise history
* City erupted in historic celebration
 
===== The Celebration =====
 
* Estimated 700,000+ attended parade
* Fans climbed poles greased with Crisco
* Jason Kelce's legendary speech in Mummers costume
* Bud Light's "Philly Philly" campaign
* Unified city in euphoric catharsis
 
==== Post-Super Bowl Era ====
 
* '''2018*** — Defended NFC East title; "Double Doink" playoff win vs. Chicago
* '''2019*** — Injuries plagued season; lost Wild Card round
* '''2020*** — 4-11-1 season; Pederson fired; Wentz traded
* '''2021*** — Jalen Hurts era begins under Nick Sirianni
* '''2022*** — 14-3 record; Super Bowl LVII appearance (lost to Kansas City 38-35)
* '''2023-present*** — Continued contention
 
== Championships ==
 
=== NFL Championships (Pre-Super Bowl) ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Opponent !! Score !! Location
|-
| '''1948''' || Chicago Cardinals || 7-0 || Shibe Park (blizzard)
|-
| '''1949''' || Los Angeles Rams || 14-0 || Los Angeles Coliseum
|-
| '''1960''' || Green Bay Packers || 17-13 || Franklin Field
|}


=== Super Bowl Appearances ===
=== Super Bowl Appearances ===


The Eagles have appeared in '''five Super Bowls''':
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Super Bowl !! Date !! Opponent !! Score !! Result
|-
| XV || January 25, 1981 || Oakland Raiders || 10-27 || Loss
|-
| XXXIX || February 6, 2005 || New England Patriots || 21-24 || Loss
|-
| '''LII''' || '''February 4, 2018''' || '''New England Patriots''' || '''41-33''' || '''Win'''
|-
| LVII || February 12, 2023 || Kansas City Chiefs || 35-38 || Loss
|}
 
== Legendary Players ==
 
=== Hall of Famers ===


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Super Bowl !! Season !! Result !! Score !! Location
|-
|-
| XV || 1980 || Loss || Raiders 27, Eagles 10 || New Orleans
! Player !! Position !! Years !! Notable
|-
| '''Chuck Bednarik''' || C/LB || 1949-1962 || "Concrete Charlie," last 60-minute man
|-
|-
| XXXIX || 2004 || Loss || Patriots 24, Eagles 21 || Jacksonville
| '''Reggie White''' || DE || 1985-1992 || "Minister of Defense," 124 sacks with Eagles
|-
|-
| LII || 2017 || '''Win''' || '''Eagles 41, Patriots 33''' || Minneapolis
| '''Steve Van Buren''' || RB || 1944-1951 || 4x rushing champion, championship hero
|-
|-
| LVII || 2022 || Loss || Chiefs 38, Eagles 35 || Glendale
| '''Brian Dawkins''' || S || 1996-2008 || "Weapon X," emotional leader
|-
|-
| LIX || 2024 || '''Win''' || '''Eagles 40, Chiefs 22''' || New Orleans
| '''Tommy McDonald''' || WR || 1957-1963 || 1960 championship star
|-
| '''Sonny Jurgensen''' || QB || 1957-1963 || Prolific passer
|-
| '''Pete Pihos''' || TE/DE || 1947-1955 || Championship-era star
|-
| '''Terrell Owens''' || WR || 2004-2005 || Controversial but electric
|-
| '''Harold Carmichael''' || WR || 1971-1983 || 6'8" receiving threat
|}
|}


=== Complete Championship History ===
=== Eagles Legends (Not Yet HOF) ===
 
* '''Donovan McNabb''' — Franchise quarterback (1999-2009)
* '''Brian Westbrook''' — Versatile offensive weapon
* '''Randall Cunningham''' — Revolutionary athletic QB
* '''Ron Jaworski''' — "Jaws," Super Bowl XV quarterback
* '''Seth Joyner''' — Buddy Ryan-era linebacker
* '''Jerome Brown''' — All-Pro DT, died tragically in 1992
* '''Trent Cole''' — Prolific pass rusher
* '''Jason Kelce*** — All-Pro center, Super Bowl champion, Mummers speech legend
* '''Fletcher Cox''' — Dominant interior defender
* '''Lane Johnson''' — Elite offensive tackle
 
== Iconic Moments ==
 
=== The Greatest Moments ===
 
* '''1948 Championship Blizzard Game''' — Van Buren's touchdown in driving snow
* '''Bednarik's Hit on Gifford (1960)''' — "This game is over!"
* '''1960 Championship Final Tackle''' — Bednarik stops Jim Taylor
* '''Miracle at the Meadowlands (1978)''' — Herman Edwards' fumble return
* '''4th and 26 (2003)''' — Freddie Mitchell's conversion vs. Packers in playoffs
* '''Miracle at the New Meadowlands (2010)''' — DeSean Jackson's punt return
* '''The Philly Special (2018)''' — Super Bowl trick play
* '''Jason Kelce's Parade Speech (2018)''' — "No one likes us, we don't care!"
* '''Strip Sack on Brady (2018)''' — Brandon Graham forces fumble to seal Super Bowl
 
=== Infamous Moments ===
 
* '''Snowball Game (1968)''' — Fans pelt Santa Claus with snowballs
* '''Bounty Bowl (1989)*** — Accused bounties on Dallas kicker
* '''Terrell Owens Saga (2005)''' — Suspension and acrimonious departure
* '''Super Bowl XXXIX Clock (2005)''' — Criticized time management
* '''Super Bowl LVII Collapse (2023)''' — Blew 10-point lead in second half
 
== Rivalries ==
 
=== Dallas Cowboys ===
 
The most intense rivalry in the NFL:
 
* '''Hatred runs deep*** — Philosophical, cultural, and sporting divide
* "America's Team" vs. Philadelphia's blue-collar identity
* '''Bounty Bowl*** — 1989 accusations of Eagles placing bounties
* '''Buddy Ryan*** vs. Jimmy Johnson coaching wars
* Every game carries enormous weight regardless of record
 
=== New York Giants ===


Including pre-Super Bowl NFL Championships, the Eagles have won '''five total league titles''':
Historical NFC East battles:
* NFL Championships: 1948, 1949, 1960
* Super Bowl Championships: LII (2017 season), LIX (2024 season)


== Lincoln Financial Field ==
* '''Two "Miracles at the Meadowlands"''' — 1978 and 2010
* Close geographic proximity adds intensity
* Classic defensive battles
* Chuck Bednarik's hit on Frank Gifford became iconic moment


=== Stadium ===
=== Washington Commanders ===


The Philadelphia Eagles play their home games at '''Lincoln Financial Field''', located at 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way in [[South Philadelphia]]. The stadium, commonly called "The Linc," opened in 2003 and replaced the beloved but aging Veterans Stadium.
Division rivalry:


=== Stadium Capacity ===
* Long history in NFC East
* Physical games
* Less intense than Dallas/Giants but always competitive


Lincoln Financial Field has a seating capacity of '''69,176''' for NFL games. The stadium can be expanded to accommodate over 72,000 fans for concerts and special events.
== The Fans ==


Stadium features include:
=== Reputation ===
* Natural grass playing surface (switched from artificial turf in 2023)
* State-of-the-art video boards
* Climate-controlled premium seating areas
* Multiple concession stands featuring local Philadelphia foods


The stadium also serves as the home field for Temple University's football team.
Philadelphia Eagles fans are legendary—and notorious:


== Ownership ==
* Consistently rated among most passionate in NFL
* '''E-A-G-L-E-S chant''' — Thunderous stadium ritual
* Notorious for booing—including their own team when warranted
* Throwing snowballs at Santa Claus (1968) — Infamous incident
* '''Batteries at J.D. Drew*** — Phillies game, but same fans
* '''Vet Stadium jail*** — Veterans Stadium had a courtroom for arrests


=== Current Ownership ===
=== The Real Story ===


'''Jeffrey Lurie''' has owned the Philadelphia Eagles since 1994, when he purchased the team from Norman Braman for $185 million—a record price for an NFL franchise at the time. Under Lurie's ownership, the Eagles have appeared in four Super Bowls and won two championships.
Beyond the reputation:


Lurie, a Boston native and former film producer, has been praised for his patience with team-building and his commitment to the Philadelphia community. He is also known for his philanthropic work through the Eagles Autism Foundation.
* Fiercely loyal through decades of heartbreak
* Blue-collar, no-nonsense attitude mirrors the city
* Demand effort and authenticity from players
* Will embrace players who embrace Philadelphia
* '''Jason Kelce*** became folk hero by embodying these values
* '''Brian Dawkins*** worshipped for his emotional intensity


The franchise is currently valued at over $6 billion, making it one of the most valuable sports teams in the world.
=== The Super Bowl Celebration ===


== Team Colors ==
The Super Bowl LII celebration became legendary:


=== Team Colors ===
* Fans climbed poles despite Crisco grease
* An estimated 700,000+ at the parade
* Restrained property damage despite expectations
* Pure, cathartic joy after decades of heartbreak


The Philadelphia Eagles' official team colors are:
== Fight Song ==


* '''Midnight Green''' - The primary color, introduced in 1996
"Fly, Eagles Fly" has been the team's fight song since 1959:
* '''Black'''
* '''Silver''' (on helmets)
* '''White'''


The Eagles are one of the few NFL teams to feature green as their primary color. The distinctive midnight green shade was adopted in 1996, replacing the kelly green used from 1948-1995. Fan campaigns have periodically called for a return to kelly green, and the team has worn kelly green throwback uniforms for select games.
<blockquote>
Fly, Eagles fly, on the road to victory!<br>
Fight, Eagles fight, score a touchdown 1-2-3!<br>
Hit 'em low, hit 'em high, and watch our Eagles fly!<br>
Fly, Eagles fly, on the road to victory!<br>
E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles!
</blockquote>


== Rivalries ==
The song plays after every Eagles score at Lincoln Financial Field, with fans singing along passionately.


=== Dallas Cowboys ===
== Swoop ==


The Eagles' biggest rival is the '''Dallas Cowboys'''. The Eagles-Cowboys rivalry is considered one of the most intense in American professional sports, fueled by decades of competitive games, geographic proximity (both teams are in the NFC East), and the cultural differences between Philadelphia and Dallas.
'''Swoop''' has been the Eagles' official mascot since 1996:


Key aspects of the rivalry:
* Green eagle character
* Both teams have historically been among the NFL's most successful franchises
* Performs at games and community events
* Games between the teams regularly draw the highest television ratings of the NFL season
* Popular with younger fans
* Fan hostility between the two cities is legendary
* Less central to fan experience than traditions like the fight song
* The "Bounty Bowl" controversies of the early 1990s intensified bad blood


Other significant Eagles rivalries include:
== Lincoln Financial Field ==
* '''New York Giants''' - NFC East division rival since 1933
* '''Washington Commanders''' - NFC East division rival
* '''New England Patriots''' - Super Bowl opponents in XXXIX and LII


== Fan Culture ==
The Eagles have played at [[Lincoln Financial Field]] since 2003:


Eagles fans are renowned throughout the NFL for their passion, intensity, and football knowledge. Notable aspects of Eagles fan culture include:
* '''Capacity*** — 69,796
* '''Known as*** — "The Linc"
* '''Location''' — [[South Philadelphia Sports Complex]]
* '''Atmosphere*** — Among the loudest in the NFL
* Previous home: [[Veterans Stadium]] (1971-2002)


* '''The "E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles!" chant''' - Heard throughout the stadium and Philadelphia-area bars during games
== Coaching History ==
* '''Tailgating culture''' - The parking lots around Lincoln Financial Field host elaborate pregame parties
* '''The 700 Level reputation''' - The upper deck of the former Veterans Stadium was notorious for unruly fan behavior
* '''Snowball incidents''' - Eagles fans famously pelted Santa Claus with snowballs at a 1968 game (and have never lived it down)
* '''The "Philly Special"''' - The trick play from Super Bowl LII has become a beloved symbol of Eagles ingenuity


== Notable Players ==
=== Notable Head Coaches ===


Throughout their history, the Eagles have been home to numerous Hall of Fame players and fan favorites:
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Coach !! Years !! Record !! Notable
|-
| '''Greasy Neale''' || 1941-1950 || 66-44-5 || 2 NFL Championships
|-
| '''Buck Shaw''' || 1958-1960 || 20-16-1 || 1960 NFL Championship
|-
| '''Dick Vermeil''' || 1976-1982 || 57-51-0 || Super Bowl XV
|-
| '''Buddy Ryan''' || 1986-1990 || 43-35-1 || Built legendary defense
|-
| '''Andy Reid''' || 1999-2012 || 140-102-1 || 4 NFC Championships, Super Bowl XXXIX
|-
| '''Doug Pederson''' || 2016-2020 || 46-39-1 || '''Super Bowl LII Champion'''
|-
| '''Nick Sirianni''' || 2021-present || — || Super Bowl LVII appearance
|}
 
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
 
{{FAQ
|q1=Have the Eagles ever won the Super Bowl?
|a1=Yes, the Philadelphia Eagles won Super Bowl LII on February 4, 2018, defeating the New England Patriots 41-33. Backup quarterback Nick Foles was named MVP after starter Carson Wentz was injured. The famous "Philly Special" trick play became an iconic moment. The Eagles also appeared in Super Bowls XV (1981), XXXIX (2005), and LVII (2023).
 
|q2=What is the Philly Special?
|a2=The "Philly Special" was a trick play called on 4th-and-goal in Super Bowl LII. Quarterback Nick Foles lined up as a receiver while running back Corey Clement took the direct snap, handed to tight end Trey Burton, who threw a touchdown pass to Foles. It was a pivotal moment in the Eagles' championship victory.


* '''Chuck Bednarik''' - "Concrete Charlie," the last true two-way player in NFL history
|q3=Why did Eagles fans throw snowballs at Santa Claus?
* '''Reggie White''' - "The Minister of Defense," dominant defensive end
|a3=On December 15, 1968, frustrated fans at a losing season's final game threw snowballs at a last-minute replacement Santa Claus during a halftime show at Franklin Field. The incident became infamous and defined Philadelphia's reputation for decades, though the context—a terrible season, a skinny drunk Santa, available snow—is often omitted.
* '''Brian Dawkins''' - Hard-hitting safety and emotional leader
 
* '''Donovan McNabb''' - Franchise quarterback from 1999-2009
|q4=Who is the greatest Eagle of all time?
* '''Brian Westbrook''' - Versatile running back
|a4=This is debated, but common answers include: Chuck Bednarik (the last "60-minute man"), Reggie White (the "Minister of Defense"), Brian Dawkins (emotional leader, "Weapon X"), and more recently, Jason Kelce (Super Bowl champion, beloved for his passion). Each defined their era of Eagles football.
* '''Jason Kelce''' - All-Pro center known for his Super Bowl parade speech
}}
* '''Jalen Hurts''' - Current franchise quarterback and Super Bowl MVP


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Lincoln Financial Field]]
* [[Lincoln Financial Field]]
* [[South Philadelphia]]
* [[South Philadelphia Sports Complex]]
* [[Philadelphia Phillies]]
* [[Philadelphia Sports Culture]]
* [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
* [[Veterans Stadium]]
* [[Philadelphia Flyers]]
* [[Sports in Philadelphia]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 177: Line 413:


== External Links ==
== External Links ==
* [https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com Philadelphia Eagles Official Website]
 
* [https://www.lincolnfinancialfield.com Lincoln Financial Field]
* [https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com Official Website]
* [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/ Philadelphia Eagles Statistics - Pro Football Reference]
* [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/ Pro Football Reference - Eagles]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Philadelphia Eagles - NFL Team History, Super Bowls, and Stadium Guide
|title=Philadelphia Eagles - Complete History, Championships, and Legendary Fans
|description=Complete guide to the Philadelphia Eagles NFL franchise. History since 1933, Super Bowl championships, Lincoln Financial Field information, rivalries, and team facts.
|description=The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the NFL's most storied franchises. From the 1948-49 dynasty to Super Bowl LII and the Philly Special, explore Eagles history, legendary players, and the most passionate fans in football.
|keywords=Philadelphia Eagles, Eagles Super Bowl, Lincoln Financial Field, NFL Eagles, Eagles history, Eagles championships
|keywords=Philadelphia Eagles, NFL, Super Bowl LII, Philly Special, Eagles history, Lincoln Financial Field, Nick Foles, Brian Dawkins, Eagles fans, NFC East
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Sports]]
[[Category:Sports]]
[[Category:Professional Teams]]
[[Category:Philadelphia Eagles]]
[[Category:NFL]]
[[Category:South Philadelphia]]
[[Category:South Philadelphia]]

Revision as of 04:47, 24 December 2025

Template:Infobox SportsTeam

The Philadelphia Eagles are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, competing in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the NFC East division. Founded in 1933, the Eagles are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history and command one of the most passionate—and infamous—fanbases in professional sports.[1]

The Eagles have won four NFL championships, including Super Bowl LII following the 2017 season, when backup quarterback Nick Foles led a stunning upset over the New England Patriots. The team plays at Lincoln Financial Field in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.

History

Founding and Early Years (1933-1957)

The Eagles were founded in 1933 as part of the NFL's expansion during the Great Depression:

  • 1933 — Franchise established for $2,500, named for the Blue Eagle symbol of the National Recovery Administration (NRA)
  • Bert Bell — Co-founder, later NFL Commissioner
  • Early years marked by struggle and losing seasons
  • 1943 — Merged with Pittsburgh Steelers as "Steagles" due to WWII player shortages
  • 1944 — Merged with Chicago Cardinals as "Card-Pitt"

The Championship Era (1947-1960)

The Eagles emerged as a dynasty in the late 1940s and 1950s:

Back-to-Back Championships

  • 1948 NFL Championship — Defeated Chicago Cardinals 7-0 in a blizzard at Shibe Park
  • 1949 NFL Championship — Defeated Los Angeles Rams 14-0 in rain at LA Coliseum
  • Only team to win back-to-back championship games by shutout
  • Featured Hall of Famers Steve Van Buren, Pete Pihos, Chuck Bednarik

The 1960 Championship

  • 1960 NFL Championship — Defeated Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers 17-13
  • Chuck Bednarik's famous tackle of Jim Taylor on the final play
  • Last NFL championship game Lombardi ever lost
  • Featured Norm Van Brocklin, Tommy McDonald, Bednarik
  • Remains a defining moment in franchise history

The Wilderness Years (1961-1978)

Following the 1960 championship, the Eagles entered a prolonged period of struggle:

  • No playoff appearances for 18 years
  • Multiple coaching changes
  • Move from Franklin Field to Veterans Stadium (1971)
  • Some notable players: Harold Carmichael, Bill Bergey, Wilbert Montgomery

The Vermeil Era (1976-1982)

Dick Vermeil brought the Eagles back to prominence:

  • 1976 — Vermeil hired from UCLA
  • 1978 — First playoff appearance since 1960
  • 1979 — "Miracle at the Meadowlands" — Herman Edwards' fumble return for touchdown
  • 1980 — Super Bowl XV appearance (lost to Oakland Raiders 27-10)
  • Wilbert Montgomery, Ron Jaworski, Harold Carmichael*** starred
  • Vermeil resigned in 1982 citing burnout

The Buddy Ryan Era (1986-1990)

Buddy Ryan brought swagger and a ferocious defense:

  • 1986 — Ryan hired from Chicago Bears (where he designed the "46 Defense")
  • Built one of the NFL's most feared defenses
  • Reggie White, Jerome Brown, Seth Joyner, Clyde Simmons
  • Three consecutive playoff appearances (1988-1990)
  • Famous for trash talk and physical play
  • "Bounty Bowl" controversy with Dallas Cowboys
  • Fog Bowl (1988) — Playoff loss to Chicago in dense fog
  • Never advanced past divisional round; fired after 1990 season

The Kotite and Rhodes Years (1991-1998)

A period of transition and frustration:

  • Rich Kotite (1991-1994) — Promising start, collapsed finish
  • Jerome Brown's death (1992)*** — Beloved defensive tackle killed in car accident
  • Reggie White's departure (1993) — Signed with Green Bay as free agent
  • Ray Rhodes (1995-1998) — 1995 Coach of the Year, declined afterward
  • Move to NFC East's new alignment

The Andy Reid Dynasty (1999-2012)

Andy Reid transformed the Eagles into perennial contenders:

Building a Powerhouse

  • 1999 — Reid hired; drafted Donovan McNabb #2 overall
  • 2000*** — First playoff appearance under Reid
  • 2001-2004 — Four consecutive NFC Championship games
  • 2002, 2003, 2004 — Lost three straight NFC Championships

Finally Breaking Through

  • 2004 Season — Acquired Terrell Owens
  • 2004 NFC Championship — Defeated Atlanta Falcons 27-10
  • Super Bowl XXXIX (February 2005) — Lost to New England Patriots 24-21
  • Controversial final drive, clock management questioned

The Later Reid Years

  • 2005-2012*** — Continued competitiveness but no Super Bowl return
  • Michael Vick*** (2009-2013) — Controversial signing, spectacular 2010 season
  • DeSean Jackson's*** "Miracle at the New Meadowlands" (2010) — Punt return to beat Giants
  • 2012 — Reid's final season, fired after 14 years

Reid Era Legacy

  • 140-102-1 regular season record
  • 10 playoff appearances in 14 seasons
  • 4 NFC Championship appearances
  • Longest-tenured coach in Eagles history
  • Revolutionized West Coast Offense concepts

Chip Kelly's Experiment (2013-2015)

Chip Kelly brought innovation and controversy:

  • 2013-2014 — Up-tempo offense, back-to-back 10-win seasons
  • 2015 — Given personnel control; made dramatic roster changes
  • Traded DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, Nick Foles
  • Acquired Sam Bradford, DeMarco Murray, Kiko Alonso
  • Fired after 6-9 start to 2015; finished by Pat Shurmur
  • Brief, polarizing tenure

Super Bowl Champions (2016-Present)

Doug Pederson and Super Bowl LII

  • 2016 — Doug Pederson hired; Carson Wentz drafted #2 overall
  • 2017 Regular Season — Wentz emerged as MVP candidate
  • Week 14, 2017 — Wentz tears ACL; Nick Foles takes over
  • Playoffs — Foles leads Eagles as underdogs
Super Bowl LII

February 4, 2018 — Philadelphia Eagles 41, New England Patriots 33

One of the greatest Super Bowls ever played:

  • Eagles entered as 5.5-point underdogs to dynasty Patriots
  • The Philly Special — Foles catches touchdown pass on 4th-and-goal trick play
  • Foles threw for 373 yards, 3 touchdowns
  • Nick Foles*** named Super Bowl MVP
  • Defense forced late fumble to seal victory
  • First Super Bowl championship in franchise history
  • City erupted in historic celebration
The Celebration
  • Estimated 700,000+ attended parade
  • Fans climbed poles greased with Crisco
  • Jason Kelce's legendary speech in Mummers costume
  • Bud Light's "Philly Philly" campaign
  • Unified city in euphoric catharsis

Post-Super Bowl Era

  • 2018*** — Defended NFC East title; "Double Doink" playoff win vs. Chicago
  • 2019*** — Injuries plagued season; lost Wild Card round
  • 2020*** — 4-11-1 season; Pederson fired; Wentz traded
  • 2021*** — Jalen Hurts era begins under Nick Sirianni
  • 2022*** — 14-3 record; Super Bowl LVII appearance (lost to Kansas City 38-35)
  • 2023-present*** — Continued contention

Championships

NFL Championships (Pre-Super Bowl)

Year Opponent Score Location
1948 Chicago Cardinals 7-0 Shibe Park (blizzard)
1949 Los Angeles Rams 14-0 Los Angeles Coliseum
1960 Green Bay Packers 17-13 Franklin Field

Super Bowl Appearances

Super Bowl Date Opponent Score Result
XV January 25, 1981 Oakland Raiders 10-27 Loss
XXXIX February 6, 2005 New England Patriots 21-24 Loss
LII February 4, 2018 New England Patriots 41-33 Win
LVII February 12, 2023 Kansas City Chiefs 35-38 Loss

Legendary Players

Hall of Famers

Player Position Years Notable
Chuck Bednarik C/LB 1949-1962 "Concrete Charlie," last 60-minute man
Reggie White DE 1985-1992 "Minister of Defense," 124 sacks with Eagles
Steve Van Buren RB 1944-1951 4x rushing champion, championship hero
Brian Dawkins S 1996-2008 "Weapon X," emotional leader
Tommy McDonald WR 1957-1963 1960 championship star
Sonny Jurgensen QB 1957-1963 Prolific passer
Pete Pihos TE/DE 1947-1955 Championship-era star
Terrell Owens WR 2004-2005 Controversial but electric
Harold Carmichael WR 1971-1983 6'8" receiving threat

Eagles Legends (Not Yet HOF)

  • Donovan McNabb — Franchise quarterback (1999-2009)
  • Brian Westbrook — Versatile offensive weapon
  • Randall Cunningham — Revolutionary athletic QB
  • Ron Jaworski — "Jaws," Super Bowl XV quarterback
  • Seth Joyner — Buddy Ryan-era linebacker
  • Jerome Brown — All-Pro DT, died tragically in 1992
  • Trent Cole — Prolific pass rusher
  • Jason Kelce*** — All-Pro center, Super Bowl champion, Mummers speech legend
  • Fletcher Cox — Dominant interior defender
  • Lane Johnson — Elite offensive tackle

Iconic Moments

The Greatest Moments

  • 1948 Championship Blizzard Game — Van Buren's touchdown in driving snow
  • Bednarik's Hit on Gifford (1960) — "This game is over!"
  • 1960 Championship Final Tackle — Bednarik stops Jim Taylor
  • Miracle at the Meadowlands (1978) — Herman Edwards' fumble return
  • 4th and 26 (2003) — Freddie Mitchell's conversion vs. Packers in playoffs
  • Miracle at the New Meadowlands (2010) — DeSean Jackson's punt return
  • The Philly Special (2018) — Super Bowl trick play
  • Jason Kelce's Parade Speech (2018) — "No one likes us, we don't care!"
  • Strip Sack on Brady (2018) — Brandon Graham forces fumble to seal Super Bowl

Infamous Moments

  • Snowball Game (1968) — Fans pelt Santa Claus with snowballs
  • Bounty Bowl (1989)*** — Accused bounties on Dallas kicker
  • Terrell Owens Saga (2005) — Suspension and acrimonious departure
  • Super Bowl XXXIX Clock (2005) — Criticized time management
  • Super Bowl LVII Collapse (2023) — Blew 10-point lead in second half

Rivalries

Dallas Cowboys

The most intense rivalry in the NFL:

  • Hatred runs deep*** — Philosophical, cultural, and sporting divide
  • "America's Team" vs. Philadelphia's blue-collar identity
  • Bounty Bowl*** — 1989 accusations of Eagles placing bounties
  • Buddy Ryan*** vs. Jimmy Johnson coaching wars
  • Every game carries enormous weight regardless of record

New York Giants

Historical NFC East battles:

  • Two "Miracles at the Meadowlands" — 1978 and 2010
  • Close geographic proximity adds intensity
  • Classic defensive battles
  • Chuck Bednarik's hit on Frank Gifford became iconic moment

Washington Commanders

Division rivalry:

  • Long history in NFC East
  • Physical games
  • Less intense than Dallas/Giants but always competitive

The Fans

Reputation

Philadelphia Eagles fans are legendary—and notorious:

  • Consistently rated among most passionate in NFL
  • E-A-G-L-E-S chant — Thunderous stadium ritual
  • Notorious for booing—including their own team when warranted
  • Throwing snowballs at Santa Claus (1968) — Infamous incident
  • Batteries at J.D. Drew*** — Phillies game, but same fans
  • Vet Stadium jail*** — Veterans Stadium had a courtroom for arrests

The Real Story

Beyond the reputation:

  • Fiercely loyal through decades of heartbreak
  • Blue-collar, no-nonsense attitude mirrors the city
  • Demand effort and authenticity from players
  • Will embrace players who embrace Philadelphia
  • Jason Kelce*** became folk hero by embodying these values
  • Brian Dawkins*** worshipped for his emotional intensity

The Super Bowl Celebration

The Super Bowl LII celebration became legendary:

  • Fans climbed poles despite Crisco grease
  • An estimated 700,000+ at the parade
  • Restrained property damage despite expectations
  • Pure, cathartic joy after decades of heartbreak

Fight Song

"Fly, Eagles Fly" has been the team's fight song since 1959:

Fly, Eagles fly, on the road to victory!
Fight, Eagles fight, score a touchdown 1-2-3!
Hit 'em low, hit 'em high, and watch our Eagles fly!
Fly, Eagles fly, on the road to victory!
E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles!

The song plays after every Eagles score at Lincoln Financial Field, with fans singing along passionately.

Swoop

Swoop has been the Eagles' official mascot since 1996:

  • Green eagle character
  • Performs at games and community events
  • Popular with younger fans
  • Less central to fan experience than traditions like the fight song

Lincoln Financial Field

The Eagles have played at Lincoln Financial Field since 2003:

Coaching History

Notable Head Coaches

Coach Years Record Notable
Greasy Neale 1941-1950 66-44-5 2 NFL Championships
Buck Shaw 1958-1960 20-16-1 1960 NFL Championship
Dick Vermeil 1976-1982 57-51-0 Super Bowl XV
Buddy Ryan 1986-1990 43-35-1 Built legendary defense
Andy Reid 1999-2012 140-102-1 4 NFC Championships, Super Bowl XXXIX
Doug Pederson 2016-2020 46-39-1 Super Bowl LII Champion
Nick Sirianni 2021-present — Super Bowl LVII appearance

Frequently Asked Questions

Template:FAQ

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Philadelphia Eagles". Philadelphia Eagles. Retrieved December 23, 2025
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