The Dallas Cowboys have a new No. 88 on their roster with rookie wide receiver CeeDee Lamb taking the number that has been worn by some of the more polarizing figures in team history.
Drew Pearson was the first big-name wide receiver to wear the number. Michael Irvin took the number to new heights when he joined the Cowboys — in 1988, ironically. Irvin helped lead the Cowboys to three Super Bowl championships and for his efforts is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
After Irvin retired, the number was given to tight end Jackie Harris, who played two seasons with the team and had less than 500 yards receiving total. Brett Pierce was also given the number but only played for two seasons, catching two passes total for 15 yards.
In 2010, Dez Bryant wore No. 88 and restored the number back to its glory. In 113 games for the Cowboys, Bryant had 531 catches for 7,459 yards and 73 touchdowns.
With Lamb getting to don No. 88, it also could be a sign that the Cowboys aren't planning on bringing Bryant back, even if he wants to be with the team. If they were planning to re-sign him, it's hard to imagine they would give away his number.
The big question for Lamb and the Cowboys now is whether he live up to expectations. Being a first-round wide receiver for the Cowboys comes with significant pressure. Throwing on the 88 jersey also carries with it high expectations in Dallas.
The hope is Lamb turns out more like Irvin and Bryant, not Harris or Pierce.
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