Carolina Panthers linebacker Jadeveon Clowney during pregame warm ups against the New York Jets at Bank of America Stadium. Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Jadeveon Clowney's Cowboys jersey number last belonged to fan favorite RB

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Josh Sanchez | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 7:41 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys aimed to bolster the defensive line following a nail-biting Week 2 win over the New York Giants by signing veteran defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.

The Cowboys and Clowney agreed to a one-year deal worth $3.5 million. The contract has a max value of $6 million with incentives.

This week, as he gears up for his expected debut with the team against the Chicago Bears, there has been some confusion about what jersey number the former No. 1 overall pick will be wearing.

Initially, Clowney was listed as No. 96 on the Cowboys' depth chart. However, it looks like he will instead be rolling with No. 42, the number of a former fan favorite running back, Deuce Vaughn, who was released during the final roster cuts.

Dallas Cowboys EDGE Jadeveon Clowney (@clownejd) is now wearing number 42. Last assigned to Deuce Vaughn. #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/dXDypTFI9K
— NFL Jersey Numbers (@nfl_jersey_num) September 16, 2025

Is it a weird number for a defensive end? Sure, but as long as Clowney is able to produce on the field, no one will be doing a double take.

It's going to be interesting to see how many reps Clowney gets in his first game of the year, but he plans to make the most of them. With Clowney's ability to rush the passer and stop the run, he's going to be a welcomed force in the trenches for Dallas.