After an 11-year NFL career highlighted by the 'Philly Special' and a Super Bowl MVP, Nick Foles announced his retirement via social media, thanking everyone involved in his journey.

In a heartfelt video message posted online, the former Eagles quarterback shared his gratitude to teammates, coaches, fans, and especially his supportive wife, Tori. Foles, who etched his name into NFL lore with the unforgettable 'Philly Special' and a Super Bowl LII MVP performance, will wrap up his career officially with a ceremonial retirement as an Eagle during their home opener. From an unexpected rise as a third-round draft pick to his well-traveled tenure across six other teams, Foles' departure marks the end of a unique and storied NFL saga.

Nick Foles began his professional football journey with the Philadelphia Eagles as a third-round draft pick back in 2012. While many doubted the impact he could make, it didn't take long for Foles to prove them wrong (probably because doubting him was so last season). His breakout moment came in the 2013 season when he stepped up as the starting quarterback following an injury to Michael Vick. The young QB dazzled fans and analysts alike, finishing the season with an impressive 27 touchdown passes against just two interceptions, setting an NFL record for best touchdown-to-interception ratio—a statistic so good, it probably had his critics scrambling for a new hobby.

Foles' career had its highs and lows, marked by a remarkable ability to bounce back. One of his career highlights occurred during the 2017-2018 NFL season. Leading the Philadelphia Eagles through the playoffs, Foles engineered one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history. The 'Philly Special'—a trick play where Foles caught a touchdown pass—remains etched in the minds of football fans everywhere. Foles' performance in Super Bowl LII earned him the MVP title as he led the Eagles to a victory over the New England Patriots.

The 'Philly Special' wasn't just a highlight reel moment; it epitomized Foles' fearless and adventurous approach on the field. His knack for delivering under pressure was instrumental in achieving that historic win. As Foles caught the pass from tight end Trey Burton, fans couldn't help but remember the countless other times he exceeded expectations when it mattered most. Foles catching that pass was almost as unexpected as finding a cheesesteak without cheese in Philly.

Foles' NFL journey took him through multiple teams, a testament to both his talent and the volatile nature of the sport. After leaving the Eagles, he played for the Rams, Chiefs, Jaguars, Bears, and Colts, enough to nearly start a football team with just his jerseys. Each stint came with its own set of challenges and learning experiences. In 2019, Foles' signing of a four-year, $88 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars was marred by injuries, preventing him from fully realizing the potential of that partnership.

Despite these setbacks, Foles maintained his poise and optimistic outlook. His travels across the league allowed him to experience different team cultures and playing styles, all of which contributed to his development as a player. Through it all, Foles never parted from his signature humility and resilience, attributes that resonated deeply with his teammates and fans. Even when the going got tough, he kept a sense of humor—after all, who else can say they literally caught a touchdown pass in the Super Bowl?

The upcoming ceremonial retirement as a Philadelphia Eagle is a fitting tribute to Foles' enduring connection with the city and its football community. The Eagles' home opener against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 2 will provide a poignant backdrop for fans to celebrate Foles' contributions to the franchise. Eagles' enthusiasts will no doubt reminisce about the magical 2017 season and the moments of brilliance that Nick brought to the team. After all, who could ever forget the 'Philly Special' - a play so daring and unexpected that it’s still talked about in sports bars across Philadelphia.

In his retirement announcement, Nick Foles did not shy away from expressing his heartfelt gratitude. He acknowledged the unwavering support of his family, particularly his wife, Tori, who stood by him through the peaks and valleys of his career. The video message served as a graceful farewell, where Foles thanked his coaches, teammates, and fans for their invaluable support. He even joked that his wife was probably more relieved than anyone to hear about his retirement.

Looking back, Foles' career is highlighted by significant achievements. The accolades, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2013 and the Super Bowl MVP award, paint a picture of a player who thrived in high-pressure situations. Plus, who could forget the 'Philly Special'—talk about catching your own break!

As he steps away from professional football, Nick Foles leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered fondly by football aficionados and casual fans alike. His journey from a third-round draft pick to a Super Bowl hero is a narrative of hope and inspiration. In the world of sports, stories like Foles' remind us that greatness can come from the most unexpected places. Who would have guessed that from backing up veterans, he would go on to orchestrate one of the most iconic plays in Super Bowl history? Talk about a plot twist!

Though Nick Foles' time on the field has come to an end, his impact on the game will endure. As the Eagles community prepares to honor him, it's clear that he will always be part of Philadelphia's football fabric. In his own words, Foles had the 'ride of a lifetime,' a journey filled with spectacular moments, like the 'Philly Special' that left fans cheering and defensive coordinators scratching their heads. As he retires, there's no doubt he has earned every bit of the acclaim and appreciation that will follow him in the years to come.