Laramie, Wyoming – After a tough 23-19 loss to the Houston Texans that dropped the Buffalo Bills to 7-4 on the season, Josh Allen found himself reflecting on more than just his team’s struggles. Despite the Bills’ heartbreaking defeat, Allen made his way to
Laramie, Wyoming, where his alma mater, the University of Wyoming, honored him by retiring his number 17.
Saturday evening saw the Cowboys play against Nevada, but the main event was Allen’s heartfelt appearance during the halftime ceremony, where his jersey was officially retired in front of a packed stadium.
“This honor means so much to me. It’s hard to put into words what Wyoming and this community have done for me. From not getting the Division I looks to getting the chance to play here, it changed my life. I’m forever grateful for the people who believed in me and helped me get to where I am today. This is as much about them as it is about me.”
— Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills Quarterback
A Moment of Gratitude and Emotion
Allen, who attended the ceremony with his parents and former coach Craig Bohl, couldn’t contain his emotions as he reflected on the incredible journey that had brought him here.
“There are so many people I can thank for this achievement. So many teammates here. Love you all,” Allen said, looking around the crowd.
He then took a moment to thank those who had believed in him:
“Coach Bohl, Coach [Brent] Vigen, the people who trusted me. The fans and support in Wyoming. I’m so honored and lucky to represent this university and this beautiful state. I love you all. Thank you. God bless. Go Pokes, and always, ‘being a CSU Ram will always be a bad thing.’”
Allen’s Journey from Reedley to Wyoming
This emotional tribute came after a remarkable journey for Allen, who was drafted by the Buffalo Bills with the 7th overall pick in the
2018 NFL Draft. But before becoming the NFL star he is today, Allen’s path to Wyoming wasn’t straightforward. Born and raised in California, Allen started his college career at
Reedley College after not receiving interest from NCAA Division I programs. It wasn’t until Wyoming offered him a scholarship that he found his home, and he played three seasons with the Cowboys.
In 2018, Buffalo selected Allen, and he quickly became the franchise’s face. Before Allen’s arrival, the Bills had made just one playoff appearance in the last 18 years and hadn’t won the
AFC East since 1995. Allen’s leadership changed that — he led Buffalo to six consecutive playoff appearances and won AFC East titles in five consecutive seasons.
A Historic Honor
Earlier this year, Allen was inducted into the Wyoming Ring of Honor and became the first player in the school’s history to have his number retired. This honor, combined with his career achievements, solidified Allen’s legacy both in
Laramie and in Buffalo.
Allen’s return to Wyoming is a reminder of the journey he took, from a young, overlooked recruit to one of the league’s top quarterbacks. His heartfelt reaction to the ceremony shows just how much his time at Wyoming and the support from the school and fans mean to him.
As the Buffalo Bills continue their season, Allen’s performance on the field will always be remembered in both Wyoming and Buffalo — but for now, he’ll treasure the recognition he received in front of his hometown crowd.
