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Dallas Cowboys Hall of Famer Drew Pearson discusses No. 88, wanting jersey retirement

James Fletcher IIIby:James Fletcher III05/22/22

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Dallas Cowboys legend Drew Pearson joined the FOX broadcast booth on Sunday night while watching the 2022 NASCAR All-Star race at Texas Motor Speedway. The new Hall of Famer discussed his love of the sport, as well as his desire to see No. 88 retired after his playing career.

During his appearance with broadcasters Mike Joy and Clint Boyer, Drew Pearson started off by showing great appreciation for the opportunity to see the NASCAR race up close and from a unique vantage point.

“This is a great opportunity for me,” said Pearson. “These are the kinds of opportunities I’ve been getting since I’ve been in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I should’ve tried a long time ago to get in, because this is pretty cool right here.”

Pearson answered a handful of questions while watching the race, making it clear that his favorite car to cheer for is whichever one sports his iconic No. 88. However, he added a small piece of information on what he hoped the Cowboys would do for him back in the day.

“Well I wanted to retire my number too, but the Cowboys wouldn’t let me,” said Pearson. “So it’s all gone. Michael Ervin, Dez Bryant, now Ceedee Lamb is wearing No. 88.

“But I remember back in the day when Dale Jarrett in the 88 car. He’s one of my favorites, of course.”

Drew Pearson talks NASCAR, speed

After all the talk about speed, Drew Pearson told the FOX booth that he has been known for speed on and off the football field. The comparison between his Hall of Fame talent and the racetrack was a big hit with the booth.

“I’m a wide receiver, so a lot of my game was built on speed,” said Pearson. “So I enjoy the speed that I’m seeing here. And the domination as well.

Joking with former NASCAR driver Clint Boyer, he then recounted his former days behind the wheel. Mike Joy asked him whether he used to speed much in his own car.

“Oh all the time,” said Pearson. Within… uh, well, all the time.”

Over 11 seasons in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys, Pearson racked up 489 receptions for 7,822 yards and 48 touchdowns. He also added 189 rushing yards throughout his time from 1773-83. Pearson went on to become a three-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro as well as a one-time Super Bowl champion.