History of Philadelphia Eagles in Timeline
The Philadelphia Eagles are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as part of the National Football Conference (NFC) East division. Their home stadium is Lincoln Financial Field, located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
1909: Frankford Athletic Association Disbands
In 1909, the original Frankford Athletic Association disbanded prior to the football season. Several original players kept the team together, leading to the continuation of the Frankford tradition.
1912: Frankford Athletic Association Reforms
In 1912, the team reformed as the Frankford Athletic Association, continuing the football tradition under the Frankford name. This marked a renewal of their community-based efforts.
1922: Absorption of Union Quakers
In 1922, the Frankford Athletic Association's Yellow Jackets absorbed the Philadelphia City Champion team, the Union Quakers of Philadelphia. This bolstered their reputation as one of the best independent football teams.
1923: Philadelphia Championship
In 1923, the Yellow Jackets captured the unofficial championship of Philadelphia, further establishing their dominance in the local football scene.
1924: Granted NFL Franchise
In 1924, the Frankford Yellow Jackets were granted an NFL franchise, marking their official entry into the National Football League.
1926: NFL Championship Win
In 1926, the Frankford Yellow Jackets won the NFL championship, highlighting their peak performance during the 1920s.
1927: NFL Major-Market League
In 1927, the NFL transitioned from a sprawling Midwestern-based association to a major-market league, a significant shift in its structure and competitive dynamics.
1928: Providence Steam Roller Championship
In 1928, the Providence Steam Roller won the NFL championship, breaking the dominance of the Chicago Bears, New York Giants, and Green Bay Packers during that era.
1931: Yellow Jackets Cease Operations
Midway through the 1931 season, the Frankford Yellow Jackets went bankrupt and were forced to cease operations. This event led to the eventual establishment of the Philadelphia Eagles.
1931: Yellow Jackets Cease Operations
Midway through the 1931 season, the Yellow Jackets went bankrupt and ceased operations, paving the way for the establishment of the Philadelphia Eagles.
1931: Frankford Yellow Jackets franchise suspended operations
To celebrate the team's 75th anniversary, the 2007 Philadelphia Eagles uniforms featured a 75th-season logo patch on the left shoulder. In addition, the team wore "throwback" jerseys in a 2007 game against the Detroit Lions. The yellow and blue jerseys, the same colors found on Philadelphia's city flag, are based on those worn by the Philadelphia Eagles in the team's inaugural season, and had been the same colors used by the Frankford Yellow Jackets franchise prior to its suspension of operations in 1931. The Eagles beat Detroit, 56–21.
October 15, 1933: Eagles' First Game
On October 15, 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles played their first game against the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds in New York City. The Eagles lost 56–0.
1933: Eagles and Steelers Begin Play
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, both located in Pennsylvania, began play in 1933.
1933: Eagles and Giants Rivalry Begins
The Philadelphia Eagles' rivalry with the New York Giants began in 1933 with the founding of the Eagles.
1933: Eagles Franchise Established
The Philadelphia Eagles were established in 1933 as a replacement for the bankrupt Frankford Yellow Jackets. A group led by Bert Bell secured the rights to an NFL franchise in Philadelphia. This marked the beginning of the Eagles' journey in professional football.
1933: Eagles and Redskins in the Same Division
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Redskins played in the same division in the Eagles' inaugural 1933 season.
1933: Start of the Eagles-Giants Rivalry
The Eagles and Giants rivalry began in 1933, marking the oldest rivalry in the NFC East and considered one of the most intense in the NFL.
1933: Eagles colors are light blue and yellow
In 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles team colors were light blue and yellow.
1933: National Football League (1933–present)
In 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles franchise was established as a part of the National Football League (NFL). This marked the beginning of the team's long-standing participation in the league. The Eagles were created to replace the bankrupt Frankford Yellow Jackets.
1933: Rivalry with Pittsburgh Steelers Begins
In 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles began their historic rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers, known as the "Battle of Pennsylvania." This rivalry has been a significant aspect of both teams' histories.
1933: Eagles Join NFL as Expansion Team
In 1933, the Eagles were one of three expansion teams to join the NFL, along with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the now-defunct Cincinnati Reds. Lud Wray became the first head coach of the Eagles.
1933: Eagles' Placement in NFL Eastern Division
In 1933, the Philadelphia Eagles were placed in the NFL Eastern Division, marking the beginning of their journey through various divisional alignments.
October 21, 1934: Eagles vs. Redskins First Meeting
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Redskins, then known as the Boston Redskins, met for the first time on October 21, 1934, with the Redskins winning 6-0 at Fenway Park.
1934: Bell's Draft Proposal
In 1934, Bert Bell proposed an annual college draft to equalize talent across the NFL, a revolutionary concept aimed at increasing fan interest and ensuring competitive balance.
1934: Eagles colors are light blue and yellow
In 1934, the Philadelphia Eagles team colors were light blue and yellow.
1934: Eagles' Best Finish in Early Years
In 1934, their second season, the Eagles achieved their best finish of their first decade by tying for third place in the East. This was a notable achievement during a challenging period for the team.
1935: Eagles added green to uniforms
The Philadelphia Eagles added green to their uniforms in 1935, and for several decades, their colors were kelly green, silver, and white.
1935: First Annual College Draft
In 1935, the first annual college draft was held, based on Bell's proposal, allowing teams to select players in inverse order of their finish in the standings.
1935: Eagles Hold Training Camp at Chestnut Hill Academy
The Eagles held their preseason training camp at Chestnut Hill Academy in 1935.
1936: Eagles Begin Play at Municipal Stadium
In 1936, the Philadelphia Eagles began playing their home games at Municipal Stadium in South Philadelphia.
1936: Eagles Sold at Auction
In 1936, the financially struggling Eagles were sold at a public auction. Bert Bell, the only bidder, became the sole owner and head coach, leading the team to a 1-11 record.
1937: Eagles Struggle with Losing Season
The Philadelphia Eagles concluded the 1937 season with a disappointing 2-8-1 record, continuing their struggles on the field.
1939: Eagles Train at Saint Joseph's University
In 1939, the Philadelphia Eagles chose Saint Joseph's University as their training camp location.
1939: Eagles Continue Play at Municipal Stadium
The Eagles continued to play their home games at Municipal Stadium in South Philadelphia until 1939.
December 1940: The Pennsylvania Polka: Eagles and Steelers Swap Rosters and Territories
In December 1940, a complex series of transactions known as the "Pennsylvania Polka" shook the NFL. Bert Bell, owner of the Eagles, intervened to prevent the sale of Art Rooney's Steelers to Alexis Thompson. Subsequently, Rooney acquired half of Bell's ownership in the Eagles. In a surprising turn, Rooney and Bell agreed to exchange their entire Eagles roster and territorial rights in Philadelphia to Thompson in return for his complete Steelers roster and territorial rights in Pittsburgh. Rooney further assisted Bell by granting him a 20% commission on the sale of the Steelers. Following the exchange, Bell assumed the role of head coach for the Steelers, while Rooney took on the position of general manager.
1940: Eagles Relocate to Shibe Park
In 1940, due to a significant rent increase proposed by the City of Philadelphia for the use of Municipal Stadium, the Eagles' owner, Bert Bell, opted to sign a lease for Shibe Park. This move allowed the team to play night games because lights had been installed at the stadium the previous year.
1941: Eagles Split Home Games Between Two Stadiums
During the 1941 season, the Philadelphia Eagles played their home opener at Municipal Stadium but later moved to Shibe Park, making it their primary home ground.
1941: Eagles Struggle Under New Ownership
The Eagles, under new ownership, continued to struggle in 1941, finishing the season with a 2-8-1 record, a repeat of their performance from the previous year.
1942: Eagles Continue to Struggle
The Eagles' performance did not improve in 1942, and they finished the season with a 2-9 record, highlighting their ongoing challenges.
1943: Eagles and Steelers Merge Due to World War II Player Shortages
In 1943, with World War II causing a scarcity of players, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers merged to create the "Phil-Pitt Eagles," also known as the "Steagles." This temporary merger allowed both teams to field a competitive roster despite the wartime player shortages. The team was coached jointly by Greasy Neale of the Eagles and Walt Kiesling of the Steelers. This wartime partnership resulted in a 5-4-1 record for the season. As intended, the merger was dissolved at the end of the season.
1943: Eagles Return to Saint Joseph's University for Training Camp
The Eagles returned to Saint Joseph's University for their training camp in 1943.
1944: Eagles Achieve First Winning Season
Under the leadership of head coach Greasy Neale and with the contributions of running back Steve Van Buren, the Philadelphia Eagles accomplished their first winning season in franchise history in 1944, marking a significant milestone.
1945: Eagles Secure Second-Place Finish
In 1945, the Philadelphia Eagles achieved a second-place finish, demonstrating their growing strength and competitiveness within the league.
1945: Last Instance of No Touchdown Catches in September and October
The Eagles' wide receivers failing to catch a touchdown pass in September and October 2003 was the first such occurrence in the NFL since 1945.
1946: Eagles Secure Another Second-Place Finish
The Philadelphia Eagles continued their upward trajectory in 1946, securing another second-place finish, further solidifying their position as a strong team.
1946: Eagles Move Training Camp to Saranac Lake
Starting in 1946, the Eagles moved their preseason training camp to Saranac Lake, where it remained until 1948.
1947: Eagles Reach First NFL Championship Game but Fall to Cardinals
In 1947, the Philadelphia Eagles reached the NFL Championship game for the first time in franchise history, showcasing their progress. Despite a strong effort from players like Steve Van Buren, Pete Pihos, and Bosh Pritchard, they lost 28-21 to the Chicago Cardinals at Comiskey Park in Chicago.
1948: Eagles logo is an eagle in flight carrying a football
From 1948 to 1995, the Philadelphia Eagles team logo was an eagle in flight carrying a football in its claws.
1948: Record-Breaking Offense
In 1948, the Philadelphia Eagles set a franchise record for the most touchdowns scored in a single season.
1948: First NFL Championship Win
In 1948, the Philadelphia Eagles won their first NFL Championship Game. This victory marked a significant milestone in the team's history as they established themselves as a formidable force in football.
1948: Eagles Capture First NFL Championship in Snowstorm Victory
In 1948, the determined Philadelphia Eagles returned to the NFL Championship game. With home-field advantage at Shibe Park and a blinding snowstorm working in their favor, they secured their first NFL Championship by defeating the Chicago Cardinals with a score of 7-0. The game's lone score came in the fourth quarter when Steve Van Buren rushed for a five-yard touchdown. The severe weather conditions meant that only a small number of fans were present to witness this historic victory.
1948: End of Saranac Lake Training Camp
The Eagles concluded their training camp at Saranac Lake in 1948.
1949: End of Eagles' Time in NFL Eastern Division
The Philadelphia Eagles' tenure in the NFL Eastern Division came to an end in 1949 as the league underwent restructuring and divisional realignments.
1949: Second NFL Championship Win
The Eagles secured their second consecutive NFL Championship in 1949. This back-to-back victory further solidified their reputation as one of the top teams in the league.
1949: Eagles Secure First Division Title Since 1949
In a historic season, the 1960 Philadelphia Eagles secured their first division title since 1949, marking a significant achievement for the team.
1949: Eagles' Rushing Offense Sets Franchise Record
The 2021 Philadelphia Eagles' rushing offense surpassed the previous franchise record set by the 1949 team, solidifying their place in team history.
1949: Eagles Sold to "Happy Hundred" Syndicate
In 1949, the Philadelphia Eagles were sold by Alexis Thompson to a syndicate of 100 buyers, affectionately known as the "Happy Hundred." Each member of the syndicate contributed $3,000 to gain a share of the team. James P. Clark, a prominent Philadelphia businessman, led the "Happy Hundred," and among the less-heralded investors was Leonard Tose, who would later play a significant role in the team's history.
1949: Eagles Secure Second Consecutive Championship and Draft Chuck Bednarik
In 1949, the Philadelphia Eagles continued their dominance by returning to the NFL Championship game for the third consecutive year. Favored by a touchdown, they triumphed with a 14-0 victory, securing their second consecutive championship with a shutout. Running back Steve Van Buren played a pivotal role, rushing for 196 yards on 31 carries. Meanwhile, the Eagles' defense effectively limited the Rams to a mere 21 rushing yards. This year also marked the arrival of Chuck Bednarik, an All-American lineman/linebacker from the University of Pennsylvania, who was selected as the first overall pick in the 1949 NFL Draft. Bednarik would go on to become one of the most celebrated and influential players in Eagles history.
1950: Greasy Neale Retires as Head Coach
Following the 1950 season, Greasy Neale, who had led the Philadelphia Eagles to two NFL championships, decided to retire from his position as head coach, marking the end of an era for the team.
1950: Eagles Fall to Cleveland Browns in Upset Loss
In 1950, the Philadelphia Eagles faced off against the Cleveland Browns, the reigning champions of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), who had recently joined the NFL along with two other AAFC franchises. Despite being heavily favored, the Eagles were stunned by the Browns in a 35-10 rout. Cleveland's offense dismantled the Eagles' renowned defense, racking up 487 total yards, including 246 passing yards. This unexpected loss left the Eagles reeling, and they never fully recovered, finishing the 1950 season with a 6-6 record.
1950: Eagles Join National Conference
In 1950, the Philadelphia Eagles transitioned into the National Conference, marking a new chapter in their divisional affiliation.
1951: Bo McMillin's Brief Tenure and Wayne Millner's Interim Role
Bo McMillin took over as the Eagles' head coach, replacing Greasy Neale. However, just two games into the 1951 season, McMillin was forced to retire after receiving a terminal stomach cancer diagnosis. Wayne Millner stepped in to finish the season as the interim head coach before being replaced by Jim Trimble for the following season.
1951: Eagles Begin Training Camp in Hershey
The Eagles started holding their preseason training camp in Hershey in 1951.
1953: Eagles Move to Eastern Conference
The year 1953 witnessed the Philadelphia Eagles becoming part of the Eastern Conference as the league continued to evolve its divisional structure.
1954: Eagles add logo to their helmets
In 1954, the Philadelphia Eagles, along with the Baltimore Colts, became the second team ever in the NFL to put a logo on their helmets, with silver wings on a kelly green helmet.
1957: Eagles Relocate to Franklin Field
After the 1957 season, the Philadelphia Eagles moved from Connie Mack Stadium to Franklin Field, which was located on the University of Pennsylvania campus. This relocation provided the Eagles with a larger seating capacity. Franklin Field could accommodate 60,000 spectators, a significant increase from Connie Mack Stadium's 39,000 capacity.
1958: Eagles Hire Buck Shaw and Acquire Norm Van Brocklin
In 1958, the Philadelphia Eagles took significant steps to strengthen their team. They hired Buck Shaw as their new head coach and acquired talented quarterback Norm Van Brocklin in a trade with the Los Angeles Rams. These moves signaled the team's ambition to improve their performance.
1959: Eagles Show Promise and Former Owner Bert Bell Passes Away During Game
The Philadelphia Eagles displayed their potential during the 1959 season, achieving a second-place finish in the Eastern Division. This season was also marked by a tragic event. Bert Bell, a former owner and co-founder of the Eagles, who had become the NFL commissioner, attended the Eagles' game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 11 at Franklin Field. Notably, Bell, a former owner of the Steelers, declined the box seats offered to him and chose to sit among the fans. During the fourth quarter, Bell suffered a fatal heart attack while watching the game from behind the end zone.
September 30, 1960: Eagles vs. Cowboys First Game
The Philadelphia Eagles won the first game in their rivalry against the Dallas Cowboys 27-25 on September 30, 1960.
November 20, 1960: Chuck Bednarik's "The Hit" on Frank Gifford
On November 20, 1960, at Yankee Stadium, Chuck Bednarik delivered a now-legendary tackle on New York Giants running back Frank Gifford. This tackle, known as "The Hit," is widely regarded as one of the most forceful and impactful tackles in NFL history. The game was tied 10-10 in the fourth quarter when Gifford caught a short pass over the middle. Bednarik responded with a clothesline tackle so powerful that it instantly knocked Gifford unconscious. Gifford was taken off the field on a stretcher and transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance, where he remained for ten days. He was diagnosed with a severe concussion that forced him to sit out for 18 months before returning to the game. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the NFL's founding, Bednarik's tackle was ranked as the 44th greatest play in league history.
December 26, 1960: The Eagles' 1960 NFL Championship Victory
On December 26, 1960, the Philadelphia Eagles defeated Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers in the NFL Championship Game. The game was notable for its frigid temperatures and for being Lombardi's only championship game loss. Chuck Bednarik, playing both center and linebacker, famously tackled Jim Taylor as time expired, securing the win for the Eagles.
1960: NFL Championship Season
The Philadelphia Eagles wore kelly green, silver, and white uniforms during their 1960 NFL Championship season.
1960: Eagles' Championship Victory
In 1960, the Philadelphia Eagles secured their first NFL Championship, breaking a long-standing title drought.
1960: Eagles' Memorable Season Marked by Grit and Determination
The 1960 season is remembered as one of the most celebrated in the history of the Philadelphia Eagles. Led by the trio of Buck Shaw, Norm Van Brocklin, and Chuck Bednarik, each in their final season before retirement, the team's success was characterized more by their resilience and determination than sheer talent. Observers would later remark that the team seemed to possess "nothing but a championship," a testament to their unwavering spirit in their pursuit of the title. The team was bolstered by the contributions of their two Pro Bowl receivers, wide receiver Tommy McDonald, who would later author an autobiography titled "They Pay Me to Catch Footballs," and tight end Pete Retzlaff.
1960: Third NFL Championship Win
In 1960, the Philadelphia Eagles won their third NFL Championship Game. This win was particularly significant as it marked their last championship victory before the Super Bowl era.
1960: Van Brocklin's Retirement and Coaching Controversy
In 1960, Norm Van Brocklin agreed to play for the Eagles with the understanding that he would become head coach upon retirement. However, ownership chose to promote Nick Skorich instead, leading to Van Brocklin's departure and subsequent coaching role with the Minnesota Vikings.
1960: Ed Khayat's Championship Connection
Ed Khayat, the Eagles' new head coach in 1971, was a defensive lineman on the 1960 Eagles championship team.
1960: Eagles won the championship
In the 2010 season against the Green Bay Packers, on September 12, 2010, the Philadelphia Eagles wore uniforms similar to the ones that were worn by the 1960 championship team in honor the 50th anniversary of that team. In weeks 4 and 6 of the 2010 season, the Eagles wore their white jerseys in a match-up against the Washington Redskins and Atlanta Falcons, respectively, before reverting to their midnight green jerseys for the rest of their home games.
1961: Eagles' Success Amidst Franchise Turmoil
Despite a strong 10-4 record in 1961, the Eagles franchise experienced significant turmoil. Sonny Jurgensen took over as starting quarterback following Van Brocklin's departure, but off-field issues persisted.
1962: Eagles' Struggles and Humiliating Loss
The 1962 Eagles, plagued by injuries, won only three games. They also suffered a humiliating 49-0 home loss to the Green Bay Packers.
1962: Eagles' Struggles Since 1962
Vermeil faced a significant challenge in 1976, as the Eagles had only managed one winning season since 1962.
1963: Sale of the Eagles to Jerry Wolman
In 1963, the Eagles were sold to Jerry Wolman, a Washington developer, for a record-breaking $5.505 million. This marked the end of the Happy Hundred's ownership.
1964: Joe Kuharich's Hiring and Era of Mediocrity
In 1964, Jerry Wolman hired Joe Kuharich as head coach on a 15-year contract. This began a period of mediocrity for the Eagles, with the team failing to make the playoffs for the next five seasons.
1966: Eagles' Winning Season and Playoff Bowl Appearance
The Eagles had a winning season in 1966, finishing second in the NFL Eastern Conference. They lost to the Baltimore Colts in the Playoff Bowl.
1966: Eagles and Steelers in the Same Division
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers were part of the same division from 1933 to 1966.
1966: Conclusion of Eagles' Time in Eastern Conference
The Philadelphia Eagles' time in the Eastern Conference concluded in 1966, paving the way for further divisional shifts in the subsequent years.
1967: Eagles' Decline Begins
The Eagles' performance declined in 1967, finishing the season with a 6-7-1 record.
1967: Eagles and Steelers Placed in Separate Divisions
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers were placed in separate divisions but remained in the same conference in 1967.
1967: Eagles Join Capitol Division of Eastern Conference
In 1967, the Philadelphia Eagles were placed in the Capitol Division within the Eastern Conference, marking a specific divisional placement during this era.
1967: Eagles Conclude Training Camp in Hershey
In 1967, the Eagles held their last preseason training camp in Hershey after many years at the location.
1968: Eagles Fans Pelt Santa Claus with Snowballs
During the 1968 season, fans of the struggling 2-11 Eagles infamously pelted snowballs at Santa Claus during a halftime Christmas celebration, highlighting the sometimes unruly behavior of the fanbase.
1968: Eagles Begin Training Camp at Albright College
The Eagles started holding their preseason training camp at Albright College in 1968.
1968: Eagles' Continued Decline
The Eagles' decline continued in 1968, resulting in a disappointing 2-12 record.
1969: Eagles wore two helmet versions
The Philadelphia Eagles wore two helmet versions in 1969: Kelly green with white wings in road games, and white with kelly green wings at home.
1969: Leonard Tose Purchases the Eagles and Makes Changes
Leonard Tose purchased the Philadelphia Eagles from Jerry Wolman for a record-breaking $16.155 million in 1969. His first actions included firing head coach Joe Kuharich and appointing Pete Retzlaff as general manager and Jerry Williams as head coach.
1969: Eagles' name added below the eagle logo
In 1973, the Philadelphia Eagles' team's name was added below the eagle, returning to its pre-1969 look.
1969: Franklin Field Becomes First NFL Stadium to Install Artificial Turf
In 1969, Franklin Field made history as the first NFL stadium to replace its natural grass field with AstroTurf, a move that marked the beginning of the widespread adoption of artificial turf in professional football.
1969: Eagles logo gets a stylized look
From 1969 to 1972, the Philadelphia Eagles logo took on a more stylized look.
1970: Eagles wore white helmets with Kelly green wings
From 1970 to 1973, the Philadelphia Eagles wore the white helmets with Kelly green wings exclusively.
1970: Eagles' Disappointing Record
The Eagles finished the 1970 season with a 3-10-1 record, contributing to the coaching change the following year.
1970: NFL-AFL Merger and Eagles' Placement in NFC East
The NFL and AFL merged in 1970, placing the Eagles in the NFC East Division alongside the New York Giants, Washington Redskins, and Dallas Cowboys. This year also marked their final season at Franklin Field, with a disappointing last-place finish at 3-10-1.
1970: Steelers Move to American Football Conference
The Pittsburgh Steelers, along with the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Colts, moved to the American Football Conference in 1970, while the Philadelphia Eagles remained in the National Football Conference.
1970: Eagles Become Part of NFC East
The year 1970 brought a significant change with the formation of the NFC and AFC. The Philadelphia Eagles were then placed in the NFC East, a division they have remained a part of since then.
1971: Eagles Move to Veterans Stadium and Coaching Change
In 1971, the Eagles moved to the newly constructed Veterans Stadium. After a poor start to the season, head coach Jerry Williams was replaced by Ed Khayat, a member of the 1960 championship team. This was a period of transition for the team.
1972: Reference to a Previous Poor Season
The text mentions that the Eagles' 3-13 record in 1998 was their worst since 1972, highlighting a previous challenging period for the team.
1972: Historical Context of Coach Dismissals
The firing of Doug Pederson in 1972 placed him among the few head coaches to be dismissed within three years of winning a Super Bowl, drawing parallels to the Baltimore Colts' decision to fire Don McCafferty after the 1972 season.
1972: Eagles' Regression and Khayat's Release
The Eagles regressed in 1972, finishing with a 2-11-1 record. Ed Khayat was subsequently released as head coach. Despite the poor overall record, the team managed upset wins against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Oilers.
1972: Eagles logo gets a stylized look
From 1969 to 1972, the Philadelphia Eagles logo took on a more stylized look.
1972: Eagles Conclude Training Camp at Albright College
After a few years, the Eagles concluded their training camp at Albright College in 1972.
1973: Eagles' name added below the eagle logo
In 1973, the Philadelphia Eagles' team's name was added below the eagle, returning to its pre-1969 look.
1973: Mike McCormack's Arrival and Offensive Changes
Mike McCormack took over as head coach in 1973, bringing with him an offensive-minded approach. Quarterback Roman Gabriel and wide receiver Harold Carmichael became key figures in McCormack's revitalized offense.
1973: Eagles Move Training Camp to Widener University
Starting in 1973, the Philadelphia Eagles moved their training camp to Widener University, marking a new era for the team's preseason preparations.
1973: Eagles Draft Charle Young
With the second overall pick in the 1973 NFL Draft, the Eagles selected tight end Charle Young from USC.
1974: Eagles' silver wings design change within a white outline on a kelly green helmet
By 1974, Joseph A. Scirrotto Jr. designed the silver wings within a white outline, and this style on a kelly green helmet became standard for over two decades for the Philadelphia Eagles.
1974: Bill Bergey Joins the Eagles
Future Pro Bowl linebacker Bill Bergey joined the Eagles in 1974, bolstering the team's defense under the guidance of new general manager Jim Murray.
1975: McCormack's Firing After Disappointing Season
Mike McCormack was fired as head coach after the Eagles finished the 1975 season with a disappointing 4-10 record.
1975: Eagles' Repeat of 4-10 Record
The Eagles finished the 1975 season with a 4-10 record, which they unfortunately repeated in Vermeil's first year as coach in 1976.
1976: Dick Vermeil Takes Over as Head Coach
Dick Vermeil was hired from UCLA in 1976 to coach the Eagles. He inherited a team that had struggled for over a decade. Despite the presence of young talent, the Eagles repeated their 4-10 record from the previous season.
1976: Merrill Reese Joins Eagles Broadcast Team
Merrill Reese became part of the Eagles broadcast team in 1976, marking the beginning of his long tenure as play-by-play announcer.
1976: "Invincible" Depicts Vince Papale's Journey to the Eagles
The movie "Invincible," released in 2006, focuses on the 1976 Philadelphia Eagles season and tells the story of Vince Papale, a diehard Eagles fan and part-time schoolteacher, who makes the team. Although slightly fictionalized, the movie captures the essence of Papale's improbable journey to becoming an NFL player.
1977: Arrival of Ron Jaworski and Defensive Improvements
The Eagles acquired quarterback Ron Jaworski from the Los Angeles Rams in 1977. The defense, led by Bill Bergey and defensive coordinator Marion Campbell, started to emerge as a formidable force.
1978: NFL Regular Season Length Change
The text mentions that the Eagles tied the league-low for touchdown receptions by wide receivers since the NFL regular season was expanded to 16 games in 1978.
1978: Falcons Upset Eagles in Wild Card Round
The rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons emerged after the Falcons upset the Eagles in the 1978 Wild Card Round.
1978: The Miracle at the Meadowlands and Playoff Berth
The Eagles achieved one of their most memorable moments in 1978 with "The Miracle at the Meadowlands." Herman Edwards's fumble return touchdown against the New York Giants with seconds remaining secured a 19-17 victory. The Eagles secured a playoff spot with a 9-7 record. Wilbert Montgomery also became the first Eagle since Steve Van Buren to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season.
1978: Eagles Referenced in "The Deer Hunter"
The 1978 Academy Award-winning film "The Deer Hunter" includes a scene where characters Nick and Stan discuss the Philadelphia Eagles while at a bar in Pennsylvania, demonstrating the team's cultural presence and recognition even in contexts outside of sports.
1979: Eagles Tie for First Place and Montgomery's Rushing Record
In 1979, the Eagles tied for first place with an 11-5 record. Wilbert Montgomery broke team rushing records with an impressive 1,512 yards.
1979: End of Training Camp at Widener University
The Eagles held their final training camp at Widener University in 1979, ending their time at the location.
1980: Eagles Move Training Camp to West Chester University
Starting in 1980, the Eagles moved their training camp to West Chester University.
1980: NFC Championship Victory and Super Bowl Berth
The Eagles dominated the NFC in 1980, culminating in a 20-7 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Championship Game at Veterans Stadium. The win, fueled by strong performances from Wilbert Montgomery and Leroy Harris, secured the Eagles a spot in Super Bowl XV.
1981: Eagles' Promising Start and Playoff Run
The Philadelphia Eagles began the 1981 season with six consecutive wins, ultimately finishing with a 10-6 record. This secured them a wild-card playoff berth. However, their journey ended in the wild-card round with a 27-21 loss to the New York Giants.
1982: Vermeil's Departure Due to Burnout
Following a 3-6 season in 1982, a year shortened by a players' strike, head coach Dick Vermeil resigned from his position, citing "burnout" as the reason.
1983: Eagles Struggle and Missed Playoffs
Under new head coach Marion Campbell, known for his "bend-don't-break" defense, the Eagles struggled in 1983 and failed to qualify for the playoffs.
1984: Continued Struggles and Near Relocation
The Eagles' struggles continued in 1984, with the team again failing to make the playoffs. Additionally, they faced a significant threat of relocation to Phoenix, Arizona, towards the end of the season.
1985: Ownership Change and Campbell's Firing
Facing substantial financial difficulties, owner Leonard Tose sold the Eagles to Norman Braman and Ed Leibowitz for a reported $65 million in 1985. The team continued to underperform, resulting in the firing of head coach Marion Campbell after week 16. Assistant coach Fred Bruney took over for the final game of the season.
1985: Record-Tying Division Crown
In 1985, the Chicago Bears set a record by securing the NFC East division title after only 11 games.
1985: Acquisition of Reggie White
In a significant move during the 1985 Supplemental draft, the Eagles secured the rights to the Memphis Showboats' star pass rusher, Reggie White.
1985: Eagles' Rushing Offense Achieves Historical Feat
The Philadelphia Eagles' rushing offense in 2021 achieved a historical milestone, ranking as the best since the 1985 Chicago Bears and setting a new franchise record.
1986: Buddy Ryan Era Begins
The arrival of head coach Buddy Ryan in 1986 ushered in a new era for the Eagles. Ryan's tough approach and defensive mindset aimed to revitalize the team, which included releasing veteran players like Ron Jaworski and giving Randall Cunningham a chance as quarterback. Despite a 5-10-1 season, there were signs of promise for the future.
1987: Strike-Shortened Season and Revenge Game
The 1987 season was impacted by another players' strike, reducing the season by one game. The replacement players struggled, especially in a 41-22 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. However, once the regular players returned, the Eagles avenged the loss with a decisive 37-20 victory against Dallas. The team finished with a 7-8 record, with three games played by replacement players.
1987: Eagles Honor Roll Established
The Philadelphia Eagles Honor Roll was established in 1987.
1988: Playoff Appearance and the "Fog Bowl"
The Eagles returned to the playoffs in 1988, facing Buddy Ryan's former team, the Chicago Bears, in the Divisional Round. The game, dubbed the "Fog Bowl" due to extremely foggy conditions, ended in a 20-12 loss for the Eagles.
1989: Bounty Bowl Incident
The 1989 Bounty Bowl incident is an example of the hostility between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys fan bases.
1989: Bounty Bowls and Eagles-Cowboys Rivalry
The 1989 season featured two intense games between the Eagles and Dallas Cowboys, known as the "Bounty Bowls." Buddy Ryan's contentious actions, including allegedly placing bounties on Cowboys players, fueled the rivalry. Both games resulted in easy victories for the Eagles, contributing to the Cowboys' 1-15 record that season.
November 12, 1990: The Body Bag Game
On November 12, 1990, the Eagles hosted the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football, securing a 28-14 win. The game was dubbed the "Body Bag Game" due to the Eagles' aggressive play, which resulted in numerous injuries to Redskins players, including both quarterbacks. Running back Brian Mitchell had to finish the game as Washington's quarterback. Despite the regular season win, the Redskins exacted revenge in the playoffs, defeating the Eagles 20-6 in the Wild Card Round.
January 7, 1991: Ryan's Departure and Kotite's Arrival
Buddy Ryan was dismissed as head coach on January 7, 1991, making way for offensive coordinator Rich Kotite to take the helm.
June 25, 1992: Jerome Brown's Tragic Death
The Eagles and their fans were deeply affected by the death of All-Pro defensive tackle Jerome Brown in a car accident on June 25, 1992. The team dedicated the season to his memory with the slogan "bring it home for Jerome." They finished 11-5 and reached the playoffs, defeating the New Orleans Saints in the Wild Card Round before losing to the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round. The offseason brought another loss with the departure of Reggie White to free agency.
1993: Eagles' Promising Start Fades, Missing Playoffs
The Eagles, under coach Rich Kotite, began the 1993 season well but faltered in the latter half, finishing with an 8-8 record and missing the playoffs.
May 6, 1994: Jeffrey Lurie Acquires the Eagles
On May 6, 1994, Jeffrey Lurie purchased the Eagles for an estimated $185 million, marking a significant change in ownership.
1994: Kotite Fired, Rhodes Hired; Watters Joins
After a 7-9 season and another missed playoff appearance, Rich Kotite was dismissed as head coach. Ray Rhodes, previously the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, was appointed as his replacement. Rhodes successfully convinced 49ers star Ricky Watters to join the Eagles as a free agent.
1995: Eagles' Last Training Camp at West Chester University
The Eagles concluded their preseason training camp at West Chester University in 1995, marking the end of an era for the team.
1995: Record-Breaking Super Bowl XXIX
Super Bowl XXIX in 1995 set a record for the highest combined score, reaching a total of 75 points.
1995: Cunningham's Benching and Departure
Randall Cunningham's time as the Eagles' starting quarterback ended in 1995. Ray Rhodes decided to bench Cunningham in favor of Rodney Peete, creating friction between the two. Rumors of a potential trade to the Arizona Cardinals surfaced but never materialized. Cunningham retired shortly after the season.
1995: Eagles logo is an eagle in flight carrying a football
From 1948 to 1995, the Philadelphia Eagles team logo was an eagle in flight carrying a football in its claws.
1995: Playoff Run and Cunningham's Last Game
Despite a slow start, Ray Rhodes led the Eagles to a 10-6 record and a playoff berth in 1995. They dominated the Detroit Lions 58-37 in the Wild Card Round but fell to the Dallas Cowboys 30-11 in the Divisional Round. This game marked Randall Cunningham's final appearance as an Eagle, scoring the team's only touchdown in the game and their last postseason touchdown for six years.
December 1996: Cowboys' Last Playoff Win
Before their victory in January 2010, the Dallas Cowboys' last playoff win occurred in December 1996.
1996: Eagles Uniform Change and Season Highlights
In 1996, the Philadelphia Eagles changed their uniform colors from the traditional kelly green to a darker midnight green. The season started well with three wins out of the first four games, but a knee injury to quarterback Randall Cunningham during a game against the Dallas Cowboys led to a decline in performance. Despite strong performances from Ty Detmer and Ricky Watters, the team finished with a 10-6 record and an early playoff exit. The year also saw the drafting of future Hall-of-Famer Brian Dawkins.
1996: Eagles logo and uniforms radically altered
In 1996, the Philadelphia Eagles logo and uniforms were radically altered, when the primary kelly green color was changed to a darker shade, officially described as "midnight green." Silver was practically abandoned, as uniform pants moved to either white or midnight green. The traditional helmet wings were changed to a primarily white color, with silver and black accents. The team's logo combination (the eagle and club name lettering) also changed, with the eagle itself limited to a white (bald eagle) head, drawn in a less realistic, more cartoon-like style, and the lettering changed from calligraphic to block letters. The eagle head is the only NFL logo to “face left” which causes the right side of the logo to present a stylized “E”.
1996: Eagles make only minor alterations to uniforms
Since 1996, the Philadelphia Eagles have made only minor alterations to their uniforms, mostly related to jersey/pants combinations worn during specific games.
1996: Eagles make subtle change to 1996-style uniform
The 2003 season also saw the first (though subtle) change to the 1996-style uniform by the Philadelphia Eagles. On both white and green jerseys, black shadows and silver trim were added to both the green and white numbering. The stripe on the pants changed from black-green-black to black-silver-green on the white pants, and from a solid black stripe to one stripe of black, another of silver, with one small white stripe in between for the midnight green pants. The 2003 season also saw the team debut black alternate jerseys, with a green (instead of black) shadow on white numbers, and silver trim. These black jerseys have been worn for two selected home games each season (usually the first home game after a bye week and the season finale).
1996: Uniform Change to Midnight Green
The Philadelphia Eagles changed their official team colors from kelly green, silver, and white to the "Midnight Green" uniforms in the 1996 season.
1996: Rebranding of the Eagles Uniform
The Philadelphia Eagles rebranded their uniforms in the 1996 season.
1997: Eagles' Up-and-Down Season
The Eagles had a fluctuating season in 1997, ending with a 6-9-1 record.
1997: Previous Hottest Game Record
The text mentions a 1997 Cowboys-Cardinals game in Arizona which held the previous record for the hottest game in NFL history before the "Pickle Juice Game" in 2000.
1997: Eagles wore midnight green jerseys and pants
In 1997, against the San Francisco 49ers, the Philadelphia Eagles wore midnight green jerseys and pants for the first of only two occasions in team history.
1997: Record-Tying Division Crown
In 1997, the San Francisco 49ers matched the record set by the 1985 Chicago Bears by securing the NFC East division title after only 11 games.
1997: Eagles Establish Temporary Courtroom at Stadium Due to Fan Incidents
In 1997, following a game against the San Francisco 49ers that was plagued with fan incidents, the Eagles implemented a unique solution. Starting at the next home game, they set up a temporary courtroom at the stadium, presided over by Judge Seamus McCaffery, to address fan misconduct. This measure reflected the serious concerns about fan behavior during this period.
1998: Mike Quick Replaces Stan Walters as Color Analyst
In 1998, former Eagles wide receiver Mike Quick took over as color analyst, replacing offense lineman Stan Walters.
1998: Eagles' Worst Season and Coaching Change
In 1998, the Eagles experienced their worst season since 1972, ending with a 3-13 record. The team's poor performance, internal conflicts, and declining fan morale led to the firing of coach Ray Rhodes. Andy Reid, former quarterback coach of the Green Bay Packers, was hired as the new head coach.
1998: Eagles' Poor Performance Affects Draft Pick
The Eagles' poor performance in 1998, where they had the worst record, would have given them the first pick in the 1999 NFL Draft. However, the first pick was awarded to the newly re-established Cleveland Browns.
September 12, 1999: Last Blacked-Out Eagles Home Game Due to Unsold Tickets
On September 12, 1999, the Eagles' home game against the Arizona Cardinals was blacked out on television in the Philadelphia market because it didn't sell out. This marked the last time an Eagles home game faced a blackout for this reason. It was also Andy Reid's first home game as the Eagles' head coach.
October 10, 1999: Michael Irvin's Career-Ending Injury
On October 10, 1999, during a game at Veterans Stadium, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin suffered a career-ending spinal injury. The incident, which drew applause from some Eagles fans, fueled the perception of Philadelphia fans as overly aggressive. Irvin clarified that the applause was for his departure from the game, not his injury. The Eagles finished the season with a 5-11 record.
1999: Eagles' Rebuilding Season
During the 1999 rebuilding season, the Eagles struggled to attract fans, with two home games failing to sell out. Several local businesses purchased remaining tickets for six other games to prevent local TV blackouts.
1999: New Era with Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb
In 1999, Andy Reid became the Eagles head coach and drafted quarterback Donovan McNabb. The selection of McNabb over Ricky Williams was met with disapproval from some fans. The team was in a rebuilding phase and had a disappointing season.
1999: End of Playoff Drought
The 1999 season marked the end of a playoff drought for the Philadelphia Eagles.
2000: The "Pickle Juice Game" and Eagles' Resurgence
The Eagles' season opener in 2000, played in extreme heat at Texas Stadium, is known as the "Pickle Juice Game" due to the team's use of pickle juice to combat dehydration. The Eagles' victory marked the beginning of their NFC East dominance. The team reached the playoffs but lost to the New York Giants in the second round.
2001: Eagles' Continued Playoff Run
The Eagles continued their successful run in 2001, achieving an 11-5 record and reaching the playoffs. They defeated the Buccaneers and the Bears but ultimately lost to the St. Louis Rams in the NFC Championship game.
2002: Eagles' Playoff Run and NFC Championship Loss
In 2002, the Eagles achieved a 12-4 record despite injuries to key players. They reached the NFC Championship game but lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the last game at Veterans Stadium.
2002: Eagles wore midnight green jerseys and pants at final regular season game at Veterans Stadium
The Philadelphia Eagles wore midnight green jerseys and pants for the second time in team history in 2002, during the final regular season game at Veterans Stadium, a win over the division-rival Washington Redskins.
December 2003: "Eagles Court" Ends Due to Improved Fan Behavior at Lincoln Financial Field
In December 2003, "Eagles Court," the temporary courtroom established at Veterans Stadium to address fan misconduct, was discontinued. The closure of the court came after the team's move to Lincoln Financial Field, which coincided with improved fan behavior, suggesting that the new stadium environment had a positive influence on the fanbase.
2003: Eagles moved to Lincoln Financial Field
Upon moving to Lincoln Financial Field in 2003, the Philadelphia Eagles wore white at home for at least their home opener, but in recent years they opted to wear their standard midnight green jerseys even during the warmest of autumn weather.
2003: Eagles wore white jerseys with white pants for the first two games of the season
In the first two games of the 2003 season (both home losses, to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots), the Philadelphia Eagles wore white jerseys with white pants.
2003: Eagles' Inaugural Game at Lincoln Financial Field and Playoff Journey
The Eagles opened their 2003 season with a shutout loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first regular-season game at Lincoln Financial Field. Despite this setback, they went on to a 12-4 season, marking a historic achievement as the first team to reach the conference championship game after being shut out in their home opener. Their journey included overcoming a lack of touchdown receptions from wide receivers, a notable statistic in NFL history. They defeated the Green Bay Packers in the Divisional Round with the help of the memorable "4th and 26" play but ultimately lost to the Carolina Panthers in the NFC Championship game.
2003: Eagles make subtle change to 1996-style uniform
The 2003 season also saw the first (though subtle) change to the 1996-style uniform by the Philadelphia Eagles. On both white and green jerseys, black shadows and silver trim were added to both the green and white numbering. The stripe on the pants changed from black-green-black to black-silver-green on the white pants, and from a solid black stripe to one stripe of black, another of silver, with one small white stripe in between for the midnight green pants. The 2003 season also saw the team debut black alternate jerseys, with a green (instead of black) shadow on white numbers, and silver trim. These black jerseys have been worn for two selected home games each season (usually the first home game after a bye week and the season finale).
March 16, 2004: Terrell Owens Trade
On March 16, 2004, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired star wide receiver Terrell Owens in a three-way trade involving the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers. This move was controversial due to Owens' reputation and the high cost of acquiring him.
2004: Eagles wore white jerseys with white pants exclusively during preseason games
After that, the white jerseys along with white pants were worn exclusively during preseason games from 2004 to 2011, with the exception of 2007 and 2010, by the Philadelphia Eagles.
2004: Eagles wore green road pants with black alternate jerseys in home finales
In the 2003 and 2004 regular-season home finales, the Philadelphia Eagles wore the green road pants with the black alternate jerseys, but lost both games. Since then, the Eagles have only worn the black jerseys with the white pants. However, due to the special 75th-anniversary uniforms serving as the "alternates" for one game in 2007, the Eagles could not wear the alternate black jersey that season per league rules at the time (alternate uniforms were permitted twice per season but only one can be used). The black jerseys with white pants, however, re-appeared for the 2008 Thanksgiving night game against the Arizona Cardinals.
2004: New York Giants' Low Touchdown Reception Record
The New York Giants broke the Eagles' record for the lowest number of touchdown receptions by wide receivers in 2004, catching only two touchdown passes throughout the season.
2005: Eagles Rank Second in NFL Merchandise Sales Despite Losing Record
Despite finishing the 2005 season with a 6-10 record, the Philadelphia Eagles ranked second in the NFL in merchandise sales. This demonstrated the unwavering loyalty and support of Eagles fans, who continued to purchase team gear even during a less successful season.
2005: Playoff Drought
The Eagles struggled in 2005, finishing with a 6-10 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since the 1999 season.
2005: Rematch Against the Patriots
The Philadelphia Eagles' appearance in Super Bowl LII against the New England Patriots marked their third attempt at a Super Bowl title and a rematch of their Super Bowl XXXIX encounter in 2005.
2006: "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" Parodies "Invincible"
The comedy series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" pays tribute to the Eagles in several episodes, most notably in Season 3, Episode 2, "The Gang Gets Invincible," which parodies the 2006 film "Invincible" about Vince Papale.
2006: Close Series Since 2006
The series between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys has been close since 2006, with each team winning 12 games.
2006: "Silver Linings Playbook" References the 2006 Eagles Team
The novel "Silver Linings Playbook" makes reference to the 2006 Philadelphia Eagles team, weaving the team's presence into the narrative.
2006: NFC East Title and Playoff Run
Despite losing quarterback Donovan McNabb for 10 games, the Eagles secured their fifth NFC East title under Coach Andy Reid with a 10-6 record in 2006. They won their Wild Card game against the New York Giants but fell short in the Divisional Round against the New Orleans Saints.
2006: Eagles Fans Ranked Among the Most Loyal
In 2006, a study by American City Business Journals ranked Eagles fans as the third most loyal in the NFL, highlighting their dedication and consistent stadium attendance. The study noted that Eagles fans filled 99.8% of the seats in the stadium over the previous decade, demonstrating their unwavering support.
2006: Book Highlights Repuation of Eagles Fans at Veterans Stadium
In 2006, HarperCollins published "If Football's a Religion, Why Don't We Have a Prayer?" by Jereé Longman. The book described fans in the 700 Level at Veterans Stadium as being known for "hostile taunting, fighting, public urination and general strangeness," reinforcing the reputation of some Eagles fans for unruly behavior.
2006: Eagles only wore the alternate black jerseys once a season
From 2006 to 2013, the Philadelphia Eagles have only worn the alternate black jerseys once a season and for the last November home game, but did not use them in 2007, 2010, and 2011. For the 2007 and 2010 seasons, the Eagles used throwback uniforms in place of the black alternates for their anniversary to commemorate past teams. The team also started wearing black cleats exclusively in 2004, although the rule was relaxed by the mid-2010s.
November 4, 2007: Eagles wore white jerseys at home against Dallas Cowboys
The Philadelphia Eagles wore white at home after October in a meeting against the Dallas Cowboys on November 4, 2007, in order to make the Cowboys wear their blue road jerseys.
2007: Eagles celebrate 75th anniversary with throwback jerseys
To celebrate the team's 75th anniversary, the 2007 Philadelphia Eagles uniforms featured a 75th-season logo patch on the left shoulder. In addition, the team wore "throwback" jerseys in a 2007 game against the Detroit Lions. The yellow and blue jerseys, the same colors found on Philadelphia's city flag, are based on those worn by the Philadelphia Eagles in the team's inaugural season, and had been the same colors used by the Frankford Yellow Jackets franchise prior to its suspension of operations in 1931. The Eagles beat Detroit, 56–21.
2007: Exception to the white jerseys with white pants during preseason games
After that, the white jerseys along with white pants were worn exclusively during preseason games from 2004 to 2011, with the exception of 2007 and 2010, by the Philadelphia Eagles.
2007: Missed Playoffs
The Eagles finished the 2007 season with an 8-8 record, missing the playoffs for the second time in three seasons.
2007: Eagles wore special 75th-anniversary uniforms
In the 2003 and 2004 regular-season home finales, the Philadelphia Eagles wore the green road pants with the black alternate jerseys, but lost both games. Since then, the Eagles have only worn the black jerseys with the white pants. However, due to the special 75th-anniversary uniforms serving as the "alternates" for one game in 2007, the Eagles could not wear the alternate black jersey that season per league rules at the time (alternate uniforms were permitted twice per season but only one can be used). The black jerseys with white pants, however, re-appeared for the 2008 Thanksgiving night game against the Arizona Cardinals.
August 2008: Eagles Sell Out 71 Consecutive Games with Long Waiting List
By August 2008, the Philadelphia Eagles had sold out 71 consecutive games, a testament to the unwavering dedication of their fanbase. Adding to the impressive streak, over 70,000 fans were on the waiting list for season tickets, demonstrating the high demand and loyalty associated with the Eagles.
2008: Eagles Games Broadcast on WYSP and WIP
In 2008, Philadelphia Eagles games began broadcasting on both rock-formatted WYSP and sports-talk Sports Radio 610 WIP, both owned by CBS Radio.
2008: Forbes Ranks Eagles Fans First in Loyalty Survey
In 2008, a Forbes survey placed Philadelphia Eagles fans first in loyalty, based on the strong correlation between the team's performance and fan attendance. This ranking underlined the passionate and dedicated nature of Eagles fans, who consistently showed up to support their team, regardless of their record.
2008: NFC Championship Appearance
In 2008, the Philadelphia Eagles achieved a 9-6-1 record, securing a Wild Card berth. They went on to upset the Minnesota Vikings and the defending Super Bowl champions, the New York Giants, to reach their sixth NFC Championship Game. Despite a valiant effort, they lost to the Arizona Cardinals 32-25.
2008: Eagles wore black jerseys with white pants for Thanksgiving game against Arizona Cardinals
In the 2003 and 2004 regular-season home finales, the Philadelphia Eagles wore the green road pants with the black alternate jerseys, but lost both games. Since then, the Eagles have only worn the black jerseys with the white pants. However, due to the special 75th-anniversary uniforms serving as the "alternates" for one game in 2007, the Eagles could not wear the alternate black jersey that season per league rules at the time (alternate uniforms were permitted twice per season but only one can be used). The black jerseys with white pants, however, re-appeared for the 2008 Thanksgiving night game against the Arizona Cardinals.
2008: "Silver Linings Playbook" Highlights the 2008 Eagles Season
The critically acclaimed movie "Silver Linings Playbook" released in 2012, highlights the 2008 Philadelphia Eagles season, incorporating the team's performance and fan culture as a backdrop for the story. The film garnered significant recognition, receiving 8 Academy Awards nominations.
December 6, 2009: Andy Reid's Coaching Milestone
On December 6, 2009, Andy Reid achieved a significant coaching milestone, becoming only the fifth coach in NFL history to secure 100 or more wins with a single team in a single decade.
January 11, 2010: General Manager Change
The Cleveland Browns hired Tom Heckert, Jr., as their General Manager on January 11, 2010. Howie Roseman was promoted from Vice President of Player Personnel to replace Heckert.
January 2010: Playoff Loss to Cowboys
In January 2010, the Eagles faced their divisional rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, in the Wild Card round. They lost 34-14, marking Dallas' first playoff win since December 1996.
March 5, 2010: Brian Westbrook Released
After eight seasons with the team, Brian Westbrook was released by the Philadelphia Eagles on March 5, 2010.
April 4, 2010: Donovan McNabb Traded
On April 4, 2010, the Eagles traded their long-time starting quarterback Donovan McNabb to the Washington Redskins in exchange for a second-round draft pick. This move marked the end of an era in Philadelphia.
September 12, 2010: Eagles wore uniforms similar to the ones worn by the 1960 championship team
In the 2010 season against the Green Bay Packers, on September 12, 2010, the Philadelphia Eagles wore uniforms similar to the ones that were worn by the 1960 championship team in honor the 50th anniversary of that team. In weeks 4 and 6 of the 2010 season, the Eagles wore their white jerseys in a match-up against the Washington Redskins and Atlanta Falcons, respectively, before reverting to their midnight green jerseys for the rest of their home games.
2010: Eagles did not use the alternate black jerseys and used throwback uniforms
From 2006 to 2013, the Philadelphia Eagles have only worn the alternate black jerseys once a season and for the last November home game, but did not use them in 2007, 2010, and 2011. For the 2007 and 2010 seasons, the Eagles used throwback uniforms in place of the black alternates for their anniversary to commemorate past teams. The team also started wearing black cleats exclusively in 2004, although the rule was relaxed by the mid-2010s.
2010: Kelly Green Uniform Worn
The Philadelphia Eagles wore the "Kelly Green" uniforms for the last time in the 2010 season opener against the Green Bay Packers.
2010: Exception to the white jerseys with white pants during preseason games
After that, the white jerseys along with white pants were worn exclusively during preseason games from 2004 to 2011, with the exception of 2007 and 2010, by the Philadelphia Eagles.
2010: Eagles and Redskins Rivalry Evens Out
Since 2010, the rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Redskins has been very even overall, with the Eagles winning 16 of the last 27 matchups.
2010: Kevin Kolb Traded
Dissatisfied with losing the starting quarterback position to Michael Vick in 2010, Kevin Kolb was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
2010: Continued Dual Broadcast of Eagles Games
Eagles games continued to be broadcast on both WYSP and WIP through 2010.
2011: Eagles wore white jerseys with white pants exclusively during preseason games
After that, the white jerseys along with white pants were worn exclusively during preseason games from 2004 to 2011, with the exception of 2007 and 2010, by the Philadelphia Eagles.
2011: Eagles did not use the alternate black jerseys
From 2006 to 2013, the Philadelphia Eagles have only worn the alternate black jerseys once a season and for the last November home game, but did not use them in 2007, 2010, and 2011. For the 2007 and 2010 seasons, the Eagles used throwback uniforms in place of the black alternates for their anniversary to commemorate past teams. The team also started wearing black cleats exclusively in 2004, although the rule was relaxed by the mid-2010s.
2011: WYSP Becomes WIP-FM, Simulcasting WIP
In 2011, CBS Radio dropped music programming on WYSP, renamed it WIP-FM, and made it a full simulcast of WIP, consolidating Eagles game broadcasts.
2011: Disappointing Season
The Eagles endured a disappointing 2011 season, finishing 8-8 and missing the playoffs. The season was impacted by a lockout, a flurry of high-profile free-agent signings, and the departure of Kevin Kolb. The team faced challenges in integrating new players and living up to the "Dream Team" hype.
December 30, 2012: Andy Reid Fired
On December 30, 2012, after a disappointing season culminating in a loss to the New York Giants, the Philadelphia Eagles made the difficult decision to fire head coach Andy Reid after fourteen seasons with the team.
2012: Nike took over as the NFL's official apparel licensee
For the 2012 season, Nike took over from Reebok as the NFL's official apparel licensee, but the Philadelphia Eagles decided that they would not be adopting Nike's "Elite 51" uniform technology. Aside from the Nike logo replacing the Reebok logo, the only other change is the league-wide revision of the NFL shield on the uniform (replacing the NFL Equipment logo). Other than that the uniforms essentially remain unchanged. The Eagles also revived their black alternate jersey and resumed wearing white pants with their white jerseys in the regular season.
2012: Honor Roll Renamed Eagles Hall of Fame
The Philadelphia Eagles Honor Roll was retitled as the Eagles Hall of Fame in 2012.
January 16, 2013: Chip Kelly Hired as Head Coach
Following a disappointing 4-12 season in 2012, the Philadelphia Eagles decided to revamp their coaching staff, bringing in Chip Kelly, the successful head coach from the University of Oregon, to replace Andy Reid on January 16, 2013.
2013: Eagles only wore the alternate black jerseys once a season
From 2006 to 2013, the Philadelphia Eagles have only worn the alternate black jerseys once a season and for the last November home game, but did not use them in 2007, 2010, and 2011. For the 2007 and 2010 seasons, the Eagles used throwback uniforms in place of the black alternates for their anniversary to commemorate past teams. The team also started wearing black cleats exclusively in 2004, although the rule was relaxed by the mid-2010s.
2013: Eagles Move Training Camp to NovaCare Complex
In 2013, under head coach Chip Kelly, the Eagles moved their training camp to the NovaCare Complex in Philadelphia, ending their tradition of holding camp at universities.
2014: Kevin Riley and Rob Ellis Host Post-Game Show
Starting in the 2014 season, the Eagles post-game show was hosted by former Eagles linebacker Kevin Riley and sports radio personality Rob Ellis.
2014: Eagles Make NFL History
The Philadelphia Eagles made NFL history in 2014 by becoming the only team to trail by ten or more points in their first three games and still come back to win each time.
2014: Eagles adopted "Elite 51" uniform from Nike
For the 2014 season, the Philadelphia Eagles officially adopted the "Elite 51″ style uniform from Nike. However, they only broke out the midnight green jerseys and pants in the second half of that season due to the difficulty of producing their preferred shade of midnight green.
2014: Blackout Uniform Introduced
In Week 6 of 2014, the Eagles introduced black pants to complement their black jerseys, creating a blackout uniform. They won the game 27-0 against the New York Giants, marking their first shutout in 18 years.
2014: Controversial Personnel Moves
After the 2014 season, Chip Kelly, having been given total control, initiated a series of controversial personnel moves for the Philadelphia Eagles, including trading LeSean McCoy, cutting Trent Cole, and trading Nick Foles.
December 29, 2015: Chip Kelly Released
With only one game left in the 2015 season and a disappointing 6-9 record, the Philadelphia Eagles released head coach Chip Kelly on December 29, 2015. Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur stepped in as interim head coach for the final game against the New York Giants, securing a 35-30 victory.
2015: Draft Strategy for the 2016 NFL Draft
At the end of the 2015 season, the Philadelphia Eagles implemented a strategic series of trades to maneuver their position in the upcoming 2016 NFL Draft.
2015: Chiefs Offensive Success
During the 2015 season, the Kansas City Chiefs, under the offensive leadership of Doug Pederson, achieved a significant milestone by moving into the top 10 in scoring offense.
2015: Eagles Preseason Games Televised on WCAU
During the 2015 season, the Philadelphia Eagles' preseason games were televised on WCAU, the local NBC owned and operated station.
2015: Disappointing Start to the Season
The Philadelphia Eagles had a disappointing start to the 2015 season, losing their first two games despite the acquisition of DeMarco Murray and Byron Maxwell.
January 18, 2016: Doug Pederson Hired as Head Coach
On January 18, 2016, the Philadelphia Eagles hired Doug Pederson, the Kansas City Chiefs' offensive coordinator, as their next head coach, marking his return to the team where he previously served in various coaching roles.
September 3, 2016: Carson Wentz Named Starting Quarterback
On September 3, 2016, after trading their starting quarterback Sam Bradford to the Minnesota Vikings, the Philadelphia Eagles decided to name their newly drafted quarterback, Carson Wentz, as the starter for Week 1 of the 2016 season.
2016: Variation of the All-Black Look
The Eagles wore a variation of the all-black uniform as part of the NFL Color Rush program in Week 16 of 2016 against the New York Giants, featuring solid black socks instead of black with white sanitary socks.
2017: Eagles Extend Broadcasting Contract with WIP-FM
The Philadelphia Eagles extended their broadcasting contract with WIP-FM through 2024, ensuring continued coverage of their games on the station.
2017: Super Bowl LII Victory
The Philadelphia Eagles won Super Bowl LII at the end of the 2017 season. This victory marked their first Super Bowl win, a monumental achievement for the team and its fans.
2017: Eagles' Successful Season and Super Bowl Run
The Philadelphia Eagles had a remarkable season in 2017, achieving a 13-3 record, which included a nine-game winning streak. Despite losing starting quarterback Carson Wentz to injury, backup Nick Foles stepped in and led the team to victory in the NFC Championship, ultimately securing a spot in Super Bowl LII against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.
2017: Eagles Defeat Falcons in Divisional Round
The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Atlanta Falcons in the 2017 divisional round on their path to winning Super Bowl LII.
2017: Pearson and Akers Exchange Insults
Cowboys legend Drew Pearson and Eagles legend David Akers exchanged insults at the opposing franchise's draft weekends in 2017 and 2018.
2017: Wentz Reunites with Former Coach
Carson Wentz's trade in 2017 led to his reunion with Frank Reich, who served as the Eagles' offensive coordinator during Wentz's early years in Philadelphia, including their Super Bowl triumph.
2017: All-White Uniform Debuted
The Philadelphia Eagles debuted an all-white uniform with white jerseys, white pants, and solid white socks in a road game against the Carolina Panthers in Week 6 of the 2017 season.
2018: Akers Insults Pearson
Eagles legend David Akers insulted Cowboys legend Drew Pearson at the opposing franchise's draft weekend in 2018.
2018: Eagles' Season Marked by Injuries and Resilience
The 2018 season saw the Philadelphia Eagles grappling with numerous injuries, including quarterback Carson Wentz's ACL injury. Despite the setbacks, the team displayed resilience, securing a playoff spot with a 9-7 record.
2018: Eagles Match Previous Record
The Eagles mirrored their 2018 record of 9-7 in the 2019 season, showcasing consistency in their performance.
2018: Midnight Green Pants Not Worn
The Philadelphia Eagles did not wear their midnight green pants at all in 2018, marking the first time since the 1996 rebrand that they only wore white pants with their primary white or midnight green jerseys.
2019: All-White Look Utilized Full-Time
The Eagles' all-white look became a full-time road uniform set in 2019 due to the NFL's decision to allow teams to wear solid color socks as an alternate.
2019: 47 Inductees into the Eagles Hall of Fame
As of 2019, there have been 47 inductees into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame.
2019: Eagles' Season Ends in Wild Card Round
In 2019, the Philadelphia Eagles replicated their 9-7 record from the previous year. Their season concluded with a Wild Card round loss to the Seattle Seahawks following a game marked by injuries, including a concussion sustained by quarterback Carson Wentz.
2019: Carli Lloyd Kicks Field Goal at Eagles Practice, Celebrates Goal with Eagles Chant
In 2019, soccer star Carli Lloyd, a notable Eagles fan, showcased her football skills by nailing a 55-yard field goal attempt during a joint practice of the Eagles with the Baltimore Ravens. A week later, during a US-Portugal soccer match at Lincoln Financial Field, Lloyd celebrated scoring a goal by performing the "E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles!" chant, further demonstrating her affinity for the team. Notably, the US won the match 4-0.
2020: Coaching Changes and Internal Discussions
Following a disappointing 2020 season, the Philadelphia Eagles experienced coaching changes, including the departure of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. Head coach Doug Pederson engaged in discussions with team owner Jeffrey Lurie about the team's future, but his proposed changes did not align with Lurie's vision.
2020: 610 WIP Rebrands as WTEL, WIP-FM Broadcasts Eagles Games
In 2020, 610 WIP changed call letters to WTEL and became the Philadelphia affiliate for the Black Information Network. WIP-FM continued to broadcast all Eagles games.
2020: Eagles Endure Challenging Season
The Philadelphia Eagles faced a challenging 2020 season, marked by consecutive losses, controversial coaching decisions, and persistent injury woes. The team concluded the season with a 4-11-1 record, breaking their playoff streak.
January 11, 2021: Eagles Dismiss Head Coach Doug Pederson
On January 11, 2021, the Philadelphia Eagles announced the dismissal of head coach Doug Pederson, marking a significant move following a disappointing season. Pederson's dismissal came shortly after the team's Super Bowl victory, making it a notable decision in NFL history.
January 21, 2021: Eagles Hire Nick Sirianni as Head Coach
On January 21, 2021, the Philadelphia Eagles appointed Nick Sirianni, previously the offensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, as their new head coach.
2021: Jalen Hurts Named Starting Quarterback, Eagles Clinch Playoff Berth
Jalen Hurts was officially appointed as the Philadelphia Eagles' starting quarterback for the 2021 season. After a slow start, the team rallied to secure a playoff spot, showcasing their resilience.
2021: Eagles Draft DeVonta Smith
In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles secured wide receiver DeVonta Smith, a Heisman Trophy winner from the University of Alabama, with the 10th overall pick. This marked a significant addition to their roster.
2021: Eagles' Valuation Soars
By 2021, Forbes estimated the Eagles' value at $3.4 billion, reflecting a substantial increase and ranking them as the 21st most valuable sports team globally.
2021: Black Pants Paired with White Uniform
During Week 10 of the 2021 season, the Eagles paired their white uniforms with the alternate black pants against the Denver Broncos, marking the first time the black pants were worn with a different colored uniform.
2022: Eagles Defeat Steelers
The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 35-13 at Lincoln Financial Field in their most recent meeting in 2022.
2022: Eagles Secure Additional Draft Pick
Through strategic maneuvering in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired an additional first-round pick, demonstrating a proactive approach to roster development.
2022: Eagles Lead Series
The Philadelphia Eagles lead the all-time series against the New York Giants 93-88-2 after the 2022 NFL season.
2022: New Black Alternate Helmet Unveiled
The Philadelphia Eagles unveiled a new black alternate helmet to be worn with the all-black uniform in 2022.
2022: Eagles Acquire Draft Picks
The Eagles acquired draft picks in 2022 as part of a trade involving quarterback Carson Wentz, indicating a strategic move for future team building.
2022: Eagles Achieve Dominant Season and Super Bowl Appearance
The 2022 season witnessed the Philadelphia Eagles dominating their competition, securing the top seed in the NFC with a 14-3 record. They advanced to the Super Bowl after convincing playoff victories but ultimately fell short against the Kansas City Chiefs.
2022: Inflation-Adjusted Entry Fee
By 2022, the entry fee paid by the Bell-Wray group to establish the Eagles in 1933 was roughly equivalent to $67,000 in inflation-adjusted dollars. This historical financial context highlights the economic changes over time.
2022: Cowboys Lead Series
As of the 2022 season, the Dallas Cowboys lead the all-time series against the Philadelphia Eagles 73-55.
2023: Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductees
As of 2023, 13 individuals affiliated with the Philadelphia Eagles have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This recognition includes notable players and contributors like Chuck Bednarik, Bert Bell, and Reggie White.
2023: Franchise Value Increase
In 2023, Forbes reported that the Philadelphia Eagles' franchise value had increased to $4.9 billion, making them the 10th-most valuable team in the NFL. This reflects the team's financial growth and market value.
2023: Jalen Hurts in 2023
Jalen Hurts played for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.
2023: Kelly Green Uniform to Return
The Philadelphia Eagles announced the return of the throwback Kelly Green uniforms as an alternate starting in the 2023 season. The release was originally planned for 2022 but was delayed due to production issues.
2023: Year of Interest
The year 2023 was significant for the Philadelphia Eagles.
May 21, 2024: Roster Update
The Philadelphia Eagles' roster was updated on May 21, 2024.
2024: New Wordmark on Jerseys
The Philadelphia Eagles announced a new modernized wordmark to replace the old one. It would be implemented immediately but wouldn't appear on the jerseys until the 2024 season.