Josh Allen experienced a memorable moment when Wyoming retired his number 17 jersey. He returned to War Memorial Stadium for the first time since his 2018 Pro Day. Joined by his parents and former coach Craig Bohl, Allen watched as the entire stadium gave him a standing ovation. The gesture moved him deeply. He became only the third player in program history to receive this honor.
Allen arrived at Wyoming after a year at Reedley College. He had no Division I offers coming out of high school. His time at the university changed his life. He became a two-year starter, totaled more than 5,800 yards, and scored 57 touchdowns. He led the team to back-to-back bowl games and won an Idaho Potato Bowl as MVP. He also grew into a captain, a leader, and a national figure.
The letter that reflects his growth
According to The Sports Rush, two days after the ceremony, Allen posted a letter of gratitude on LinkedIn. The message was intimate, reflective, and humble. “Never overlook the power of your foundation,” he wrote, offering advice to young players. He encouraged future athletes to build that foundation with intention, embrace difficult lessons, and let character guide them.
Congrats to Josh Allen on becoming the first football player to ever have his jersey retired by the University of Wyoming! 1️⃣7️⃣🤠#BillsMafia #Wyoming #JoshAllen pic.twitter.com/3Mm3yos4lB
— Dave Myers BIB (@DaveMyersBIB) November 22, 2025
For Allen, returning to The War was special because “it was where everything changed for me.” He recalled cold practices, early mornings, and moments that shaped his discipline. He highlighted his teammates, the community that welcomed “a kid from Firebaugh,” and the coaches who helped him become a leader.
He also acknowledged that much of his NFL success started there. His playoff runs, his MVP, and his professional growth all have roots in Wyoming. His final message was simple but powerful: “Thank you, Wyoming. This means everything.”
The tribute not only celebrated a player. It marked the symbolic end of a cycle. It was Allen’s reunion with his younger self and with the place that shaped his character.
