Philadelphia Eagles: Trent Cole to retire with team on Christmas

PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 23: Trent Cole
PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 23: Trent Cole /
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One of the greatest pass rushers in Eagles history will retire with the team

Philadelphia Eagles legend Trent Cole will serve as an honorary captain during Monday Night Football against the Oakland Raiders Christmas evening. Cole will officially retire with the team, making his Christmas wish come true.

Cole was drafted by Philadelphia in the fifth-round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of Cincinnati. His career started on the bench behind Jevon Kearse and N.D. Kanu but eventually worked his way into the starter job. He would earn All-Rookie honors after collecting five sacks in 15 games, only seven of which were starts.

A product of legendary defensive coordinator Jim Johnson, Cole was a model of consistency during his NFL career, appearing in at least 14 games in 11 of his 12 seasons. he also recorded at least eight sacks in six consecutive seasons including three consecutive double-digit sack seasons.

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After a decade in Philadelphia Cole went to the Indianapolis Colts with whom he started just nine games over two seasons.

Cole will retire second in Eagles history behind the great Reggie White with 85.5 sacks, nearly 40 short of White’s record. He rates in the top-10 in franchise history in tackles, forced fumbles, and assists on tackles.

Philadelphia enters Christmas night looking to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs despite losing star quarterback Carson Wentz to a torn ACL.

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Backup Nick Foles has a history of success against the Raiders, whom he threw an NFL record seven touchdowns against in his first stint with the Eagles under Chip Kelly.