Von Miller is officially wearing No. 40 for the Dallas Cowboys, a detail that finally dropped Thursday with the team’s roster announcement. This wasn’t just a simple number swap, though. Nope, this was a full-blown negotiation that saw fullback Hunter Luepke switch to No. 30 to make it happen for the veteran.
The Price of Nostalgia for Number 40
It seems Miller really wanted that No. 40 after he signed with Dallas, but it took some serious talks to pry it from Luepke. The two guys even rocked the same number in practice for a bit, can you imagine the confusion? We’re talking real stakes here for a jersey number. While the exact details of what Miller ended up giving Luepke aren’t out yet, the word on the street was a previous offer of a *lifetime supply of chicken*. Seriously! Luepke had been rocking No. 40 since he joined the Cowboys in 2023, so he definitely had some seniority there. You gotta wonder if that chicken deal is still on the table.
Miller’s History with the Digits
This isn’t some random number for Miller, either. He sported No. 40 all the way back at Texas A&M, and then again during his stints with the Rams and the Bills. It’s a significant number for him, a familiar look. He’s had other numbers, sure: No. 58 for a solid nine seasons with the Broncos and even No. 24 last season with the Commanders. But clearly, No. 40 holds a special place. Meanwhile, rookie safety Caleb Downs is sticking with his assigned No. 13, avoiding all this jersey number drama entirely. Smart move, rook.
So, Von Miller is back in No. 40, his lucky number. With the season already underway in September, you know Miller is gonna be looking to bring that A&M, Rams, and Bills magic to the Cowboys defense. Let’s see if that “lifetime of chicken” pays off for Luepke and if Miller’s familiar threads help bring the thunder to the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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