ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen will achieve another milestone when the University of Wyoming becomes the first institution to retire his collegiate number.
The Cowboys will honor Allen by retiring his No. 17 jersey on November 22, marking a historic first for the program. No Wyoming player has previously received this distinction.
The special ceremony is scheduled for halftime during Wyoming’s matchup with Nevada. Allen plans to attend both the game and retirement festivities, taking advantage of Buffalo’s bye weekend while the Bills prepare for their Thursday night clash against Houston.
“What’s up, Cowboys fans. Josh Allen here,” the quarterback announced in a promotional video. “I’m excited to announce that I will be returning to University of Wyoming Nov. 22 against University of Nevada. Excited to be back in Laramie. Go Pokes.”
This homecoming represents Allen’s first visit to his alma mater since Buffalo selected him as the seventh overall pick in 2018 – the highest draft position ever achieved by a Wyoming player.
Allen’s path to stardom began unconventionally. Initially overlooked as an unrecruited high school prospect, he spent time at Reedley College in California’s Central Valley before finding his way to Laramie. His Wyoming tenure spanned 2015-2017, though a collarbone injury sidelined him during his debut season.
Despite the early setback, Allen guided the Cowboys to consecutive eight-victory campaigns. His collegiate statistics include 5,066 passing yards, 767 rushing yards, and 57 combined touchdowns. The two-time team captain capped his college career by earning MVP honors in the 2017 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.
“It is very exciting and a wonderful day for the State of Wyoming,” stated athletics director Tom Burman. “It is going to be a big day in the history of Wyoming Football. Josh is the most high-profile ambassador the University of Wyoming has ever had.”
The current NFL MVP’s professional journey continues Sunday evening when Buffalo opens their season against Baltimore at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.
Allen’s jersey retirement ceremony represents not only personal recognition but also a testament to Wyoming football’s rising profile through one of its most successful alumni.
