Account
J.J. Watt Can Wear Cardinals' Retired No. 99, Says Marshall Goldberg's Daughter
March 2, 2021
If you already bought a J.J. Watt No. 99 Arizona Cardinals jersey, you don't have to worry about sending it back.
The five-time Pro Bowler thanked the family of Marshall Goldberg, revealing he plans to keep his same number in Arizona. The franchise retired the No. 99 to honor Goldberg.
JJ Watt @JJWattI want to thank the Goldberg family for their kindness in offering me the opportunity to wear #99 in Arizona which was previously retired in honor of Marshall Goldberg. I am humbled & honored to wear it and will do my best to make them proud and honor Marshall properly. #RedSea https://t.co/zoXCHZfTP4
Watt announced Monday he's signing with the Cardinals. From a uniform perspective, that presented a problem given Goldberg's status.
Goldberg's daughter, Ellen Goldberg Tullos, told TMZ Sports she'd be fine with Watt wearing the only number he has known during his NFL career.
"He has my blessings," Tullos said. "And I'm sure my father would be more than delighted for him to carry it on."
She added that her father "always respected other players" and would likely be happy to bestow the No. 99 jersey to Watt since it likely carries some meaning for the three-time Defensive Player of the Year.
If nothing else, this is making more NFL fans aware of Goldberg's career.
He played both ways as a member of the Chicago Cardinals. During his Pro Bowl season in 1941, he ran for 427 yards and three touchdowns while catching 16 passes for 313 yards and one score. He also led the NFL in interceptions with seven.
