New Broncos tight end Nick Vannett will wear jersey No. 88 this season, a number previously worn by wide receiver Demaryius Thomas from 2010-2018.
This will mark the first time since the Broncos traded Thomas mid-way through the 2018 season that a Denver player has worn jersey No. 88 in the regular season.
Before Thomas, tight ends Tony Scheffler (2006-2009) and Jeb Putzier (2002-2005) were No. 88. Thomas and former tight end Riley Odoms (1972-1983) are arguably the most notable payers to have worn No. 88 with the Broncos.
A five-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl champion, Thomas ranks second on the team’s all-time receiving list in yards (9,055) and touchdowns (60). Rod Smith is the only player in franchise history with better numbers (11,389 yards; 68 touchdowns).
Vannett wore No. 81 at Ohio State and with the Seahawks. He switched to No. 88 with the Steelers last season. Tim Patrick, a wide receiver entering his fourth year in Denver, currently wears jersey No. 81.
