The sight of Josh Allen, soaring through the air or unleashing a cannon of an arm, is synonymous with the number 17 emblazoned on his Buffalo Bills jersey. It's a number that has become iconic in the NFL, representing the dynamic quarterback at the helm of a franchise reborn. But what's the real story behind this seemingly simple two-digit choice? It turns out, like many things with Allen, it's rooted deeply in family.
Long before he was dazzling crowds in Orchard Park, Allen rocked the number 17 during his standout career at the University of Wyoming. The choice wasn't random; it was a deliberate nod to the man who first ignited his passion for football: his father, Joel Allen. Joel wore the number 17 during his own high school and college playing days, and for Josh, adopting that same digit was a way to honor his biggest supporter and first coach. It was a tribute, a constant reminder of the foundation of his football journey.
A Family Legacy
When the Buffalo Bills selected Allen with the seventh overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, there was no guarantee he'd be able to continue the tradition. Often, jersey numbers are already taken by established veterans or retired in honor. Fortunately for Allen and his personal legacy, the number 17 was available. He wasted no time in claiming it, ensuring that the familial connection he'd forged in Wyoming would follow him to the professional ranks. It’s a testament to the strong bond he shares with his father and the values he carries onto the field every Sunday.
So, while #17 might just be a number to some, for Josh Allen and the Bills Mafia, it's far more profound. It represents hard work, dedication, and the enduring influence of family. Every time he steps onto the field, whether throwing a game-winning touchdown or scrambling for a crucial first down, he carries a piece of his father's legacy, making the number 17 not just his jersey number, but a symbol of his journey and his roots.
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