Caelen Carson debuts new No. 21 jersey at Cowboys practice; explains change

Dallas Cowboys rookie sensation Caelen Carson officially debuted his No. 21 jersey as the team begins its final preparations for a Week 1 showdown with the Cleveland Browns.

Jun 5, 2024; Frisco, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Caelen Carson (41) goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. / Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys rookie sensation Caelen Carson had the team's fan base in an uproar when it was announced that he would be switching to the iconic jersey No. 21.

The former Wake Forest standout wore No. 41 throughout minicamps, training camp, and the preseason.

On Monday, as the team ramps up its preparations for the season opener against the Cleveland Browns, Cowboys Nation got its first look at Carson rocking the No. 21 on the field.

MORE: Cowboys' Caelen Carson proving he can be factor in rookie year

It is quite the sight to behold.

New number for Caelen Carson as he donned the No. 21 for the first time in practice today.#DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/VU1j7NS4L8

— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisDC) September 2, 2024

Caelan Carson now wearing No. 21. Other number changes on the 53-man roster - Ryan Flournoy is No. 80, Brevyn Spann-Ford is No. 89. pic.twitter.com/28xzpVJFPp

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) September 2, 2024

The man known as "Seatbelt" says the number change was not because of Deion Sanders.

"To me, I don't wanna get into all of that but, for me, it's just a better [fit]," he said. "I don't wanna make it more than what it is. … [No.] 41 was a little heavy on me. [I feel] a little lighter now."

Carson was a standout during training camp and the preseason and was expected to be part of the cornerback rotation during his rookie season.

However, he will have a bigger role than anyone initially imagined after a foot injury to DaRon Bland, who will miss six to eight weeks.

The good news is the Cowboys coaching staff has complete belief in Carson's ability to hold his own.

Mike McCarthy on rookie CB Caelen Carson, who expects to play a major role on Sunday vs. Cleveland.

 "Well, I think Caelen's in good hands.  He has a quiet confidence about himself.  Since he's arrived here, I haven't seen him really take a step backwards.”#Cowboys pic.twitter.com/5MwIVmF38v

— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) September 2, 2024

Dallas will kick off its 2024 campaign on Sunday, September 8, on the road against the Cleveland Browns. Tom Brady will be making his broadcasting debut for the game on FOX.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

Dak To The Future: 3 potential free agent destinations for Dak Prescott in 2025

SWAG: Dallas Cowboys uniform schedule unveiled for 2024 NFL season

Fantasy Football: Cowboys players who could make or break your team

Repeat? Latest NFC East title odds for 2024 NFL season may surprise you

Cowgirls: Meet Abby Summers: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Rookie