The Dallas Cowboys are entering a new era following the emotional departure of defensive lineman DeMarcus Lawrence, who recently signed with the Seattle Seahawks. After eleven impactful seasons that netted him 61.5 sacks and four Pro Bowl appearances, Lawrence bid farewell to the franchise that he anchored for over a decade. In a decisive move, the Cowboys quickly reassigned Lawrence’s iconic No. 90 jersey to newcomer Solomon Thomas, showcasing the team's commitment to evolving its roster and prioritizing future talent.
Lawrence’s farewell, delivered through heartfelt social media posts on March 15, 2025, encapsulated the bittersweet divide between a player revered by fans and an organization that has opted not to retire his number. "I never truly believed that the day would come when I would go and sign with another team," Lawrence wrote, expressing gratitude to the fans, team owner Jerry Jones, and the wider Dallas organization while acknowledging his next journey in Seattle. His words carried weight, as his departure highlighted a complex relationship marred by public comments about not being able to win a Super Bowl with the Cowboys.
Days before his departure, Lawrence stirred controversy with a blunt admission: “I know for sure I’m not gonna win a Super Bowl there.” This sparked a heated exchange with teammate Micah Parsons, who responded on social media, stating, "What rejection and envy look like! This some clown s—." Such exchanges drawn from digital platforms highlighted the strained dynamics within the Cowboys’ locker room, and Lawrence’s pivotal role in that narrative became part of his legacy.
As Lawrence transitioned to the Seahawks, the Cowboys wasted no time in passing the significant legacy of No. 90 to Solomon Thomas, who boasts a respectable track record with 204 career tackles and 17.5 sacks. Previously, Thomas wore No. 94 during his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, so the choice to reassess his college number signified the Cowboys' readiness to continue on without pausing for nostalgia. Weighing Lawrence’s accomplishments against the Cowboys' history, team officials determined that retiring Lawrence’s number wasn’t necessary despite his impressive accolades.
The Cowboys’ approach to jersey numbers reflects a unique characteristic of the franchise: they rarely retire jerseys. While legends like Troy Aikman (No. 8), Roger Staubach (No. 12), and Emmitt Smith (No. 22) remain unissued since their departures, the organization has constantly recycled numbers, signaling a determination to uphold a competitive edge. Lawrence’s jersey reassignment is emblematic of that ethos; as his chapter closes, another chapter begins.
Furthermore, with a roster increasingly focused on younger talent, the Cowboys are betting on players like Parsons and others to lead defensively. As they navigate this transition, there’s an undeniable weight on the shoulders of Solomon Thomas, who steps into 90 with big expectations and a fresh start.
Reflecting on Lawrence’s exit, Cowboys fans are left feeling mixed emotions. His statement about the Super Bowl not being attainable in Dallas resonates deeply with a fanbase longing for a return to glory. Lawrence’s tenure, defined by ups and downs, culminates in a poignant moment that echoes a familiar sentiment for many—a respected player moving on, seeking glory elsewhere.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys' path forward seems both uncertain and filled with potential. While Lawrence pursues a fresh start with the Seahawks, the Cowboys remain determined to forge ahead with an unyielding focus on their objectives, symbolizing the relentless pursuit—every ending in the NFL becomes a new beginning.
As the Cowboys prepare for their upcoming season, they will continue to lean on the talent of their younger players, reshaping their defensive strategy against the backdrop of Lawrence’s legacy. Though his departure is deeply felt, it serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of the sport, where players may come and go, but the team’s ambition to win remains constant.
In all, DeMarcus Lawrence heads west, chasing glory in Seattle’s blue, while the Dallas Cowboys shimmer in their legacy—ever elusive Super Bowl dreams flicker like the lights in AT&T Stadium. With a new chapter unfolding, the Cowboys are ready to swing into the future, one jersey number at a time. How ‘bout them Cowboys!
