Sophia
In a week of seismic shifts, All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons, the Dallas Cowboys’ most feared defender, has officially joined the Green Bay Packers. The blockbuster trade, which included a massive new contract, was followed by another significant announcement on Friday: Parsons will wear the No. 1 jersey for the Packers, a number not seen on a Green Bay player since 1926.
A New Era in Green Bay
Parsons made the highly anticipated jersey number reveal during his introductory press conference, marking a significant departure from the No. 11 he famously wore with the Cowboys and during his collegiate career at Penn State. The No. 11 is currently occupied by Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed, prompting Parsons to choose a new identity for his Green Bay tenure.
The decision to wear No. 1 carries immense historical weight for the Packers. Interestingly, Jayden Reed himself had requested to wear the No. 1 jersey after being drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, only to be told it “wasn’t available.” This highlights the unspoken reverence for the number within the organization.
The Legacy of Curly Lambeau and the No. 1
The last, and only, player to wear the No. 1 jersey for the Green Bay Packers was none other than team founder, former player, and legendary coach, Curly Lambeau. Lambeau, who co-founded the Packers with George Calhoun in 1919, wore the number during his 10-year playing career, earning three All-Pro selections. He led the Packers to an NFL championship in his final year as a player-coach and, following his retirement from playing, guided Green Bay to five more titles.
While the No. 1 jersey isn’t formally retired by the Packers, its absence for nearly a century speaks volumes. It signifies that the revered number is not simply handed out. Parsons’ choice, therefore, is a powerful statement, indicating that the Green Bay organization views him as worthy of such a profound honor. Lambeau’s indelible mark on the franchise, including the naming of Lambeau Field, underscores the significance of this decision. The No. 1 jersey is now officially back in play, entrusted to one of the NFL’s most dynamic talents.
Fan Engagement and Future Expectations
Parsons had engaged with fans on social media, polling them on whether he should choose No. 0 or No. 1. His Friday night announcement settled the debate, building anticipation for his debut. All eyes will be on Lambeau Field this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET as the Packers host the Detroit Lions in a pivotal NFC North matchup, televised on CBS. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see Parsons in his new, historically significant, No. 1 jersey.
This move not only redefines Parsons’ brand but also adds another compelling layer to the Green Bay Packers’ rich history. For more on the Packers’ storied past and player traditions, visit the official Packers history page.
