With 40 days remaining until the Arizona Cardinals’ 2025 season opener against the Saints, we examine the players who have previously worn jersey number 40.
As the countdown to the Arizona Cardinals’ 2025 NFL season begins—with just 40 days remaining until their opening game against the New Orleans Saints—fans and analysts alike turn their attention to team history, roster traditions, and the stories behind jersey numbers. Among these, jersey number 40 holds a unique place, worn by a variety of players who have contributed to the franchise’s legacy in different eras. This exploration delves into the history of players who have donned No. 40 for the Cardinals, highlighting their careers, significance, and moments that define their time with the team, while also reflecting on what this number symbolizes within the franchise’s storied history.
The Significance of Jersey Numbers in Football
In the NFL, jersey numbers are more than mere identifiers—they often carry historical significance, symbolize positional roles, and foster a sense of identity and tradition within teams. While some numbers become legendary due to their association with iconic players, others are less prominent but still hold stories worth telling. The number 40, in particular, is often associated with players playing in the secondary, special teams, or versatile roles, and across NFL history, it has been worn by players who have made crucial contributions on special teams, defense, or as role players.
Within the Arizona Cardinals franchise, jersey No. 40 has been worn by a handful of players spanning different eras—from the franchise’s early days in Chicago, through its move to Arizona, and into the modern NFL. Each of these players left their mark, whether through pivotal plays, leadership, or simply embodying the team’s spirit during their tenure.
Historical Context: The Arizona Cardinals Franchise
Before diving into individual players, it’s essential to understand the franchise’s history. The Cardinals are one of the oldest teams in the NFL, established in 1898, originally based in Chicago before relocating to St. Louis in 1960, and finally settling in Arizona in 1988. Over this extensive history, the team has seen numerous standout players, coaches, and memorable moments.
Jersey numbers tend to evolve with eras, but traditions and player stories often keep certain numbers alive in the collective memory. Number 40, while not as iconic as numbers like 11 or 88, has nonetheless been worn by players who played vital roles in their respective seasons.
Notable Players Who Have Worn No. 40 for the Cardinals
1. Eric Allen (1994-1995)
One of the more recognizable players to wear No. 40 for the Cardinals, Eric Allen was a veteran cornerback known for his ball-hawking skills and leadership. Allen, who had a prolific career with the Philadelphia Eagles, joined the Cardinals in the mid-1990s, bringing veteran experience to a team in transition.
Contributions:
Allen’s tenure with the Cardinals was marked by his leadership in the secondary and mentorship of younger cornerbacks. Although his time with the team was brief, his presence added veteran stability to the defense. His experience and football IQ helped elevate the secondary’s performance during that period.
Legacy:
While not a Hall of Famer for the Cardinals specifically, Allen’s influence on the team, especially in mentoring younger players, is remembered among fans who followed the team during the mid-90s.
2. Rashad Johnson (2010-2014)
Perhaps the most prominent recent player to wear No. 40, Rashad Johnson was a safety and special teams ace during his tenure with the Cardinals. Drafted in 2009, Johnson quickly established himself as a key figure in Arizona’s secondary and special teams units.
Contributions:
Johnson was known for his hard-hitting style, football intelligence, and leadership. Over five seasons, he accumulated over 300 tackles, multiple interceptions, and became a team captain. His versatility allowed him to excel both in coverage and in run support.
Memorable Moments:
One of his most notable contributions came during the 2013 season, when he helped lead the Cardinals to a playoff appearance. His leadership on defense and special teams played a significant role in the team’s success during that era.
Legacy:
Rashad Johnson is remembered fondly by fans for his toughness, leadership, and dedication. His tenure with the team cemented his place as one of the notable players to wear No. 40 in recent history.
3. Anthony Bell (2022-2023)
A more recent addition to the roster, Anthony Bell is a safety who wore No. 40 during his stint with the Cardinals. While his time was relatively brief, Bell’s contributions on special teams and as a depth safety were valuable.
Contributions:
Bell played primarily on special teams, showcasing his tackling ability and speed. His role was crucial in coverage units and providing depth in the secondary.
Potential and Future:
While his tenure was short, players like Bell exemplify the role of special teams specialists—often overlooked but vital to team success.
Role of Players Wearing No. 40: Special Teams and Versatility
Throughout NFL history, players wearing No. 40 have often been versatile, playing roles that require agility, speed, and physicality. Many have been special teams contributors—covering kicks and punts, making tackles, and providing depth in the secondary.
In the case of the Cardinals, No. 40 has been associated with players who exemplify toughness and reliability, especially on special teams units. These players often serve as the backbone of team coverage and are essential during close games, where field position and special teams play can turn the tide.
The Evolution of the Jersey Number 40 in the Cardinals’ History
While not tied to a single legendary figure, the players who have worn No. 40 for the Cardinals reflect the team’s evolving roster and strategic focus. From veteran cornerbacks like Eric Allen to dynamic safeties like Rashad Johnson, the number has been worn by players whose roles centered on defense, special teams, and leadership.
In earlier eras, players in this number might have been more specialized, but in the modern NFL, versatility and special teams prowess have brought players like Bell into the spotlight.
The 2025 Season and the Significance of 40 Days
As the Cardinals prepare for their 2025 campaign, with 40 days remaining, the focus shifts to building the roster, developing young talent, and honoring the team’s history. The number 40, in particular, symbolizes resilience, adaptability, and contribution—traits embodied by the players who have worn it.
The upcoming game against the Saints will be an opportunity to see how the team incorporates new talent and how past traditions influence current players. While jersey numbers may seem insignificant to some, they connect generations of players and fans, weaving a rich tapestry of history and legacy.
Broader Reflections: The Legacy of Jersey Number 40
While No. 40 may not be as iconic as other numbers in NFL history, the players who have worn it for the Cardinals exemplify dedication, toughness, and team-first mentality. They serve as reminders that every jersey number has a story, and even the less prominent numbers contribute significantly to a team’s identity.
In the grand scheme, players like Rashad Johnson, Eric Allen, and Anthony Bell are part of the fabric of the franchise’s history. Their contributions—whether through game-changing plays, leadership, or special teams excellence—embody the values that the Cardinals cherish.
As the Arizona Cardinals edge closer to their 2025 season opener against the New Orleans Saints, the story of jersey No. 40 reminds us of the diverse roles players fulfill in pursuit of team success. From veteran leadership to special teams impact, the players who have worn this number over the years exemplify resilience, versatility, and commitment. Their stories, woven into the franchise’s history, serve as inspiration for current and future players alike. While 40 days may seem like a small countdown, it symbolizes a bridge between past achievements and future hopes, as the Cardinals prepare to make new memories on the gridiron.
