The Cowboys continue the reshape their defensive identity heading into the 2026 season and one of their more symbolic changes comes through veteran defensive lineman Kenny Clark. After wearing No. 95 upon his arrival to Dallas as part of the Micah Parsons trade, Clark has made the switch to No. 97 — previously worn by the departed Osa Odighizuwa, who was shipped to San Francisco in exchange for a third-round pick, 92nd overall, in this week's upcoming NFL draft.
His exit not only created an opening along the defensive line, but it allowed for Clark, who wore No. 97 during his nine seasons in Green Bay and three years at UCLA, to go back to his old number.
Looks like Kenny Clark has changed his number to 97 https://t.co/UtYNxGqvH1 pic.twitter.com/fuijiBvfqd
A quick walk around the Star in Frisco confirms that Clark has indeed changed his number. That or either someone has made a major error by depicting Clark in the wrong jersey.
Clark's decision to adopt his old number signals more than just a cosmetic change but his growing role within the Cowboys organization and the new defensive leadership. While jersey numbers don't define performance, they often carry legacy weight.
Just over a year ago, Odighizuwa was viewed as a defensive centerpiece which earned him a four-year, $80 million contract with $58 million in guarantees after posting career highs is sacks (4.5), QB hits (23), and tackles (47) in 2024.
Today, Clark, a three-time Pro Bowl selection who has earned over $104 million in his career, is expected to take on a large yet different role in a new scheme under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker that places a large emphasis on alignment and spacing.
As the Cowboys continue to retool their defensive front, all eyes will be on Clark and his new number — and whether 97 continues to be synonymous with impact play in Dallas.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys Kenny Clark takes over No. 97 after Odighizuwa departure