FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith will be starting the 2021 season with a new number, but not an unfamiliar one.
Smith is switching jersey numbers from 54 to 9, which was previously worn by popular quarterback Tony Romo, who retired after 2016 season as the team’s all-time leading passer.
“It’s a blessing and honor to carry on the 9 legacy,” Smith said. “Tony Romo did a great job being elite.”
Smith has reached out to Romo to let him know of his plans and get his blessing but he has yet to speak to him.
Smith said the No. 9 is significant to him as he has worn it dating back to youth football and wore it in high school and at college at Notre Dame.
“Number 9 is a part of me,” Smith said.
Smith is taking advantage of a new NFL rule that does away with position-specific numbers.
He will be the first linebacker in team history with a single-digit number.
Smith will have to buy out the current inventory of No. 54 jerseys and T-shirts at a cost of close to $500,000, per ESPN.
It’s an expensive change but Smith says it’s about “value over cost.”
