In a historic move, the Dallas Cowboys have broken a 65-year tradition by allowing linebacker DeMarvion Overshown to wear the coveted No. 0 jersey, making him the first player in the team’s history to don this number.
This change, while a break from the past, is not without significance, particularly for Micah Parsons, who had his sights set on No. 0 before Overshown claimed it.
A shift in Cowboys tradition
The Cowboys had long adhered to the unspoken rule that no player would wear the No. 0 jersey, a tradition that spanned more than six decades.
However, Overshown, who had worn the number during his college days at Texas, was determined to bring it to Dallas. His strong performances, including a standout season after recovering from an ACL injury, convinced Jerry Jones to approve the change. The decision was not made lightly, as Jones initially resisted, citing that No. 0 was historically tied to the team’s mascot, Rowdy.
“Being the first one to wear it at Texas, growing up a Longhorn and a Cowboy in the great state of Texas – I wear it as a badge of honor,” said Overshown.
“It’s not too many people that get to say they’re the first to do anything, and to say I’m the first to wear No. 0 at Texas and the first to do it in Dallas Cowboys’ history, that’s a badge of honor.”
This shift in tradition marks a new chapter for the Cowboys, especially as the NFL itself has reintroduced No. 0, allowing players the freedom to embrace unique identities.
Parsons, a standout linebacker and former college star, had previously expressed his intention to switch to No. 0, calling himself “Agent Zero,” a nod to NBA legend Gilbert Arenas.
However, before Parsons could make the switch, safety Jayron Kearse claimed the number. Now, with Overshown officially wearing No. 0, Parsons has congratulated his teammate, hinting at the possibility of a future jersey swap between the two.
“Now we can jersey swap,” Parsons wrote in an Instagram story.
Parsons, who currently wears No. 11 – his Penn State number – expressed support for Overshown’s milestone. As the Cowboys’ defense looks to continue its dominance, the inclusion of Overshown in No. 0 represents not just a personal achievement but a symbolic moment for the team as they embrace change while maintaining their legacy.
Read the full article here
