The Philadelphia Eagles joined the NFL in 1933 and developed into one of the league’s most passionate and hard-nosed franchises, shaped by physical football and the demanding sports culture of Philadelphia. The team built its identity on defense, toughness, and a connection with fans who expect results and reward effort.
In early decades, the Eagles relied on strong running games and disciplined coaching, which led to championship success before the Super Bowl era. Their history is filled with eras defined by stars who elevated the team and kept them competitive through changing styles of play.
The team found renewed strength across multiple generations. The Randall Cunningham years brought excitement and creativity, while the Donovan McNabb era delivered consistent playoff contention and multiple NFC Championship appearances and a Super Bowl appearance in the 2004 season.
Everything changed in 2017 when Philadelphia finally claimed its first Lombardi Trophy. Backup quarterback Nick Foles guided an improbable postseason run and produced an MVP-winning performance in a Super Bowl LII upset of the New England Patriots, a moment cemented by the famous Philly Special trick play.
Today, a strong roster and modern approach under Nick Sirianni have kept the Eagles in the championship conversation on an annual basis. The team remains one of the most competitive organizations in the NFC with a national following and a devoted fan base.
Where Do the Philadelphia Eagles Play?
Lincoln Financial Field has been the Eagles’ home since 2003. The stadium sits in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and is known for its loud crowds and hostile environment for opposing teams.
The venue hosts NFL games, concerts, college football and international soccer events. For Philadelphia fans, the stadium represents both a home field advantage and a centerpiece of local sports culture.
History of the Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles were founded in 1933 and slowly built toward championship contention. The team reached its first peak under head coach Greasy Neale, winning NFL Championships in 1948 and 1949 led by running back Steve Van Buren.
Philadelphia returned to the top of the league in 1960, defeating Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers in the NFL Championship Game. Chuck Bednarik played both offense and defense and became an enduring symbol of the era.
The franchise continued to evolve through the 1970s and reached Super Bowl XV in 1980 under Dick Vermeil. Although they fell short against the Oakland Raiders, the run marked a major turning point for the club.
The late 1980s and early 1990s featured a defensive unit recognized as one of the toughest of its time. Randall Cunningham’s athleticism made the offense explosive, while Reggie White anchored a dominant defense that terrorized quarterbacks league-wide.
Andy Reid took over in 1999 and led the Eagles to a period of sustained success built around Donovan McNabb. The team reached five NFC Championship Games and appeared in Super Bowl XXXIX.
Doug Pederson brought the franchise its most defining moment in 2017, when Philadelphia won Super Bowl LII. Nick Foles stepped in after starting quarterback Carson Wentz suffered a season-ending injury and guided the team through a memorable postseason run.
Nick Sirianni became head coach in 2021 and quickly returned the Eagles to the Super Bowl stage. Philadelphia fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in a wild Super Bowl LVII, but the Eagles exacted their revenge two years later with a blowout win in Super Bowl LIX.
Interesting Facts and Franchise Milestones
- Founded in 1933
- NFL Championships won in 1948, 1949 and 1960
- Won Super Bowl LII in the 2017 season
- Returned to the Super Bowl in the 2022 season
- Won Super Bowl LIX in the 2024 season
- Randall Cunningham helped usher in the era of mobile quarterback
- Jason Kelce became one of the most respected offensive linemen of his generation
- Philadelphia is known for one of the most intense fan bases in sports
- Lincoln Financial Field opened in 2003
Notable Philadelphia Eagles Players and Coaches
Notable Players
Steve Van Buren, Running Back (1944–1951)
Steve Van Buren led the league in rushing four times and carried the Eagles to championships in 1948 and 1949. His production helped establish Philadelphia as a top franchise in the postwar NFL.
Chuck Bednarik, Linebacker/Center (1949–1962)
Bednarik was the last full-time two-way NFL player and is remembered for his toughness and leadership. His presence defined the Eagles’ identity during their 1960 championship season.
Harold Carmichael, Wide Receiver (1971–1983)
Carmichael stood 6-foot-8 and presented matchup problems for defenses throughout his career. He retired as the Eagles’ all-time leader in receptions, yards and touchdowns.
Reggie White, Defensive End (1985–1992)
White dominated opposing offensive lines and recorded 124 sacks during his time in Philadelphia. His combination of power and technique made him one of the most impactful pass rushers in NFL history.
Randall Cunningham, Quarterback (1985–1995)
Randall Cunningham expanded offensive possibilities with his athleticism and deep throwing ability. Though injuries affected what should have been the prime of his time in Philadelphia, he created many numerous notable highlights while with the Eagles and influenced the next generation of dual-threat quarterbacks.
Brian Dawkins, Safety (1996–2008)
Brian Dawkins brought intensity and leadership to the Philadelphia secondary and became one of the most beloved players in Eagles history. His emotional presence and playmaking ability set the tone for the defense.
Donovan McNabb, Quarterback (1999–2009)
McNabb led the Eagles to five NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl appearance. His mobility and arm strength helped shape one of the most successful periods in franchise history.
Jason Peters, Offensive Tackle (2009–2020)
A member of the league’s 2010s All-Decade Team, Jason Peters protected the blind side for more than a decade with elite footwork and strength.
With the Eagles, Peters earned first-team All-Pro honors twice and second-team honors two other times. He was also a Pro Bowl selection seven times in his dozen season with the Eagles.
Jason Kelce, Center (2011–2023)
A six-time first-team All-Pro selection, Jason Kelce combined intelligence, athletic movement, and durability to anchor the offensive line during a highly-decorated career. Kelce finished his career having started 156 consecutive regular season games.
Nick Foles, Quarterback (2012–2014, 2017–2018)
Foles delivered one of the most memorable playoff performances in league history and helped secure the Eagles’ first Super Bowl win.
Notable Coaches
Greasy Neale (1941–1950)
Greasy Neale led the Eagles to back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949 and set the foundation for early franchise success with disciplined, run-focused football.
Dick Vermeil (1976–1982)
Vermeil brought wins back to Philadelphia and led the Eagles to Super Bowl XV. His demanding coaching style and preparation helped push the franchise back into contention.
Andy Reid (1999–2012)
Andy Reid established lasting stability and reached the NFC Championship Game five times with Philadelphia. His offensive philosophy shaped modern Eagles football and laid groundwork for future success.
Doug Pederson (2016–2020)
Pederson coached the Eagles to their first Super Bowl win in 2017. His aggressive approach and effective game planning defined a historic season.
Nick Sirianni (2021–present)
After a sour end to Pederson’s tenure, the Eagles quickly returned to winning ways under Sirianni, who has had a mostly successful stay in Philadelphia. Through his first four seasons, he led the team to four playoff appearances, two NFC East titles, two Super Bowl appearances, and an unforgettable title in the 2024 season.