Why is WR KaVontae Turpin wearing Tony Romo’s No. 9? Dallas Cowboys gave it to him

It’s official.

Former TCU star KaVontae Turpin will open his NFL and Dallas Cowboys career against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with No. 9 on his back.

It will be the first time an offensive player has worn No. 9 in the regular season since legendary quarterback Tony Romo, the team’s all-time leading passer, was granted his release after the 2016 season.

Linebacker Jaylon Smith wore No. 9 for part of last season before the Cowboys released him.

Turpin, an undrafted rookie and former USFL standout who wore No. 2 in preseason, said he didn’t request No. 9.

It was the Cowboys idea for him to wear Romo’s legacy No. 9, not his.

“They gave it to me,” said Turpin, who will serve as the Cowboys primary kick returner and backup slot receiver. “It’s a blessing to wear that number. Tony Romo, he’s a legacy. I am honored to be here to wear that number. It’s a good number in the Cowboys community.”

For Romo fans, who are upset that No. 9 is being brought back in circulation, Turpin reiterated that it wasn’t his idea.

“They gave it me,” Turpin said. “I didn’t care what number I had. I’m just blessed to be here and happy to be on this team.”