Cowboys’ decision to reassign No. 94 is already creating friction with former teammate

Cowboys’ decision to reassign No. 94 is already creating friction with former teammate originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Undrafted free agent Kelvin Gilliam is a promising addition to the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive line. As the franchise begins rookie minicamp preparations, the former Virginia Tech standout has been assigned jersey No. 94.

The number carries emotional weight, as it was last worn by Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically passed away in November at just 24 years old. The reassignment immediately sparked backlash, including a reaction from former Cowboys safety Juanyeh Thomas, as he expressed disappointment over how soon the number was handed out again.

“That 94 shoulda been off limits til my brother's contract fully expired… Just don’t feel right fr… #94Forever,” Thomas wrote.

It is worth mentioning that jersey numbers handed out during rookie minicamp are often temporary placeholders and can change if a player ultimately secures a spot on the final 53-man roster. Gilliam has the potential to do so as his versatility is a plus, and he has the frame and the speed to disrupt both the run and the pass. However, the controversy surrounding the jersey number has certainly put him under a brighter spotlight than most undrafted rookies.