In a landmark event at War Memorial Stadium, Josh Allen's No. 17 jersey was retired, marking the first time in University of Wyoming football history that a player's number has been honored in this way.

The ceremony took place during halftime of the Cowboys' game against Nevada, with a sold-out crowd bearing witness to the historic moment.

Allen, accompanied by his parents, Joel and Lavonne, and former coach Craig Bohl, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the fans and the university.

"First off, I just want to say thank you for everybody coming out tonight. This is such an amazing honor, a huge blessing," Allen said during the ceremony.

"There's so many people that I can thank for this achievement. A lot of teammates here. Love you guys. Coach Bohl, coach Brent Vigen, people that believed in me. The fans, and the support here in Wyoming. I'm so honored and blessed to represent this university and this beautiful state. I love you guys. Thank you. God bless. Go Pokes, and it will always suck to be a CSU Ram."

Allen's return to Laramie was his first since his Pro Day in 2018.

His presence energized the crowd, many of whom donned No. 17 jerseys in both Wyoming's brown and gold and the Buffalo Bills' red and blue.

During his tenure at Wyoming from 2015 to 2017, Allen led the Cowboys to consecutive eight-win seasons and two bowl appearances, including a victory in the 2017 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.

He amassed 5,066 passing yards, 44 passing touchdowns, and 767 rushing yards, solidifying his legacy as one of the program's all-time greats.

Selected seventh overall by the Buffalo Bills in the 2018 NFL Draft, Allen has since become a three-time Pro Bowl selection and was named the NFL MVP in 2024.

His impact on both the university and the state of Wyoming has been profound.

University of Wyoming Athletic Director Tom Burman remarked, "It is very exciting and a wonderful day for the State of Wyoming. It is going to be a big day in the history of Wyoming Football. Josh is the most high-profile ambassador the University of Wyoming has ever had."

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the game concluded with a 13-7 loss to Nevada.

However, the day's focus remained on honoring Allen's contributions and the indelible mark he has left on Wyoming football.

Allen's wife, Hailee Steinfeld, and numerous former teammates were also in attendance, underscoring the strong bonds and lasting relationships formed during his time at the university.

As the first football player to have his number retired at Wyoming, Allen's legacy is now permanently enshrined at War Memorial Stadium, serving as an inspiration for future generations of Cowboys.

His journey from a no-star recruit to an NFL MVP exemplifies the spirit of determination and excellence that the University of Wyoming strives to instill in all its athletes.