The Number 88

When Jon Baldwin was drafted by the Chiefs, one of the questions surrounding his rookie season was what number he would wear.

He wore number 82 in college at Pitt. This, of course, is Dwayne Bowe's number so obviously not an option.

Then, on April 30th, Baldwin tweeted that we would be number 88.

I doubt that Baldwin is all that familiar with Kansas City Chiefs history, but the readers of this blog should be. That number used to be worn by perhaps the greatest tight end of all time and a Chief fan favorite: Tony Gonzalez.

Some Chiefs fans liked this idea. The number has a good history and could be a good omen for Baldwin as a player. I, however, was not fond of the idea.

Yes, I am upset that Tony Gonzalez wanted out of Kansas City so bad, and that he finally got his wish two seasons ago. But still, Gonzalez is one of the greatest Chiefs of all time and a future Hall of Famer. It would not find it right if any other player from the Chiefs organizations wore that number. That is why I was a little shocked that Baldwin would choose that number.

Well, today, the situation was resolved.

Baldwin once again tweeted today, but this time stating: "Hey guys due to the fact that 88 will be retired I'll be wearing a different #Gochiefs!"

So Tony Gonzalez's number is going to be retired. I find this not only a very classy move by the Chiefs organization but also the right move. Tony G. was a very important member to our team, and now his number will hang in Arrowhead next to all the other legendary names that have played on that field before him.

Just another sign that even though Gonzalez left us for the Falcons, he will always be known as a Chief.