As we count down to the start of the NFL regular season in 2024 and the Arizona Cardinals’ first game of the year, we find ourselves 88 days away from when the Cardinals will kick off the season on the road against the Buffalo Bills. The number 88 holds significance for the team as it is one of their retired numbers, not having been worn in quite some time.
The last player to wear No. 88 for the Cardinals was tight end J.V. Cain, who played for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1974-1978 before his tragic death in 1979. Cain was the team’s rookie of the year in 1974, with notable stats including 13 passes caught for 152 yards and a touchdown. His best season was in 1976 when he caught 26 passes for 400 yards and five touchdowns, following with another 25 passes caught for 328 yards in 1977. His number was retired after that season, honoring his contribution to the team.
Although Cain made a significant impact while wearing No. 88, it was receiver Sonny Randle who is considered the best player to have worn that number. Randle wore No. 88 from 1959-1966, earning four Pro Bowl selections and one first-team All-Pro nod. He recorded two 1,000-yard seasons and even led the league in receiving touchdowns during one year.
For more Cardinals news and updates, be sure to check out the latest episodes of Cards Wire’s podcast, Rise Up, See Red, featuring Jess Root. You can find and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. This story originally appeared on Cards Wire and provides a glimpse into the history and significance of the No. 88 for the Arizona Cardinals.