Jersey numbers often hold special meaning for athletes, symbolizing their identity and career achievements. For the Dallas Cowboys, this tradition has taken on a distinctive form, especially with the No. 88 jersey. Unlike many teams that retire numbers, the Cowboys allow legendary numbers to be passed down, creating a legacy carried by each new wearer.
The No. 88 jersey has become synonymous with some of the greatest wide receivers in Cowboys history. Hall of Famers Drew Pearson and Michael Irvin, along with former All-Pro Dez Bryant, have all donned the number, setting an enduring standard of excellence for those who follow.
CeeDee Lamb Inherits and Honors the Legacy of No. 88
Since receiving the No. 88 jersey in 2020, CeeDee Lamb has proudly taken on the responsibility that comes with the storied number. At the recent Fanatics Fest in New York City, Lamb joined Dez Bryant, another member of the exclusive “No. 88 Club,” for a reunion and a Q&A session with comedian Keegan-Michael Key and other NFL players.
Lamb was asked how it feels to join this unique fraternity of Cowboys receivers. He responded simply, “Legacy.”
Those guys before me and the things they’ve done in that jersey number obviously holds me to higher standard. Raises the bar a little bit.—CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys Wide Receiver
His words reflect the weight of carrying a number that represents a tradition of top-tier performance and dedication.
A Record-Breaking Season Marks Lamb’s Rise
In 2023, Lamb delivered a historic wide receiver season for the Cowboys, setting franchise records with 135 receptions and 1,749 receiving yards. His accomplishments show that he is not only honoring the legacy of past No. 88s but also raising it.
Lamb has built strong connections with the receivers who came before him, viewing the jersey as more than just a uniform number. It symbolizes a brotherhood that transcends individual achievements.
I’m not just wearing a jersey for myself, but obviously everybody else in between,
I hope I’m making them proud right now.—CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys Wide Receiver
Lamb’s Growing Place in Cowboys History
Entering his sixth NFL season in 2025, Lamb has already etched his name among the Cowboys’ all-time receiving leaders. He is fourth in franchise history with 496 career receptions, having surpassed Drew Pearson last year. Currently, Lamb is on track to overtake Dez Bryant and Michael Irvin, moving into second place for all-time receptions.
Beyond receptions, Lamb ranks seventh in career receiving yards with 6,339 and is ninth in receiving touchdowns with 38. These milestones highlight his steady progression as a key figure in Dallas Cowboys lore and within the celebrated No. 88 legacy.
The Enduring Impact of the No. 88 Tradition
The Dallas Cowboys’ decision to pass down iconic numbers instead of retiring them ensures that legends like Drew Pearson, Michael Irvin, Dez Bryant, and now CeeDee Lamb remain connected through their shared impact on the team. Lamb’s commitment to living up to this heritage shows how the No. 88 jersey continues to be a symbol of ambition, excellence, and brotherhood within the organization.
As Lamb continues to build his career, his dedication to the legacy signals not only respect for those who wore the number before him but also a drive to leave his own mark in Cowboys history.