As the Bills prepare to retire Thurman Thomas' number, Hall of Famers reflect on his rightful place in 'the legacy of 34'
By Tim Graham - The Athletic
There’s power within a jersey number. Some carry a mystique.
The first time Thurman Thomas pulled the No. 34 over his shoulder pads at Willowridge High, he wanted to channel his hometown hero, Houston Oilers running back Earl Campbell.
The final time Thomas took off his No. 34, he’d so comprehensively established his own legacy that no Buffalo Bills player would wear that number again.
No. 34 has been out of circulation since Thomas’ last game in 1999. The Bills on Monday night will make it official like they did with Jim Kelly’s No. 12 and Bruce Smith’s No. 78.
“It’s a great thing for Thurman Thomas that the Bills want to retire his number,” all-time NFL leading rusher Emmitt Smith said. “It’s well-deserved.