Josh Allen hadn’t returned to Laramie, Wyo., his home for three years as the Wyoming Cowboys’ quarterback, since his pro day in 2018. His first trip back to War Memorial Stadium was a memorable one.

Wyoming retired Allen’s No. 17 jersey during halftime of its game against Nevada on Saturday, making Allen the first player in program history to receive the honor. The Buffalo Bills quarterback and reigning NFL MVP walked onto the field alongside his parents, Joel and LaVonne Allen, who wore a custom, hybrid Bills-Cowboys jersey, to a raucous, sold-out crowd. A montage of Allen’s highlights played before his name and number were revealed along the middle deck of the stadium.

“The fans and the support here in Wyoming, I am so blessed to represent this university and this beautiful state,” Allen said. “I love you guys. Thank you, God bless, go Pokes.”

He concluded the speech by addressing the Cowboys’ biggest rival, Colorado State.

“And it will always suck to be a CSU Ram,” Allen said.

“It will always suck to be a CSU Ram”

Listen to Josh Allen’s speech at his jersey retirement ceremony during halftime of today’s game! No Poke will ever wear the #17 again. pic.twitter.com/PLIV47S2fa

— KGWN TV (@kgwntv) November 22, 2025

Wyoming and Colorado State face off annually in the Border War for the Bronze Boot trophy. While Colorado State leads the all-time series 60-52-5, Wyoming has won eight of the last 10 matchups — including wins in both of Allen’s seasons as the Cowboys’ starting quarterback.

After transferring from Reedley Community College in central California, Allen spent three seasons in Laramie from 2015 to 201. He was selected No. 7 by the Bills in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Allen nearly declared for the draft is junior year after throwing for over 3,200 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2016, but decided to return to Wyoming for a final season. He led Wyoming to a win in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl in 2017, earning MVP honors after tossing three touchdowns.

Over his career at Wyoming, Allen threw for 5,066 yards, 44 touchdowns and 21 interceptions, adding 727 yards and 12 touchdowns rushing.

Since entering the league, Allen has become one of its most prolific passers. He won his first MVP award last season after throwing for 3,731 yards, 28 touchdowns and six interceptions. The Bills have a 7-4 record this season, and Allen is in the running for a second consecutive MVP. Earlier this week, Buffalo lost to the Houston Texans on “Thursday Night Football.”

Allen watched the Cowboys’ 13-7 loss to Nevada alongside wife and actress Hailee Steinfeld, who sported a bright yellow “Allen” hat.