Michael Sam Joins Cowboys’ Practice Squad, But What Number Will He Wear?

After being cut by the St. Louis Rams, rookie defensive end Michael Sam officially joined the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday as a member of the practice squad. The former Missouri star is looking to become the first openly gay player to compete in the NFL.

According to ESPN’s Darren Rovell, Sam will wear No. 46. However, he will not wear the number if activated to the 53-man roster. Such a situation complicates matters for retailers, who have seen a boon in sales.

Sam’s No. 96 with the St. Louis Rams was the No. 2 best-seller among rookies behind quarterback Johnny Manziel among rookies, and the No. 6 overall.

Sam’s future with the Cowboys is not guaranteed. Any team can sign him off the Cowboys' practice squad, but are required to put him on the 53-man roster for a minimum of four weeks.

The move to Dallas might be an ideal situation for Sam, who is considered too small to play defensive end, and too slow to play linebacker. The Cowboys are lacking in depth, and finished with the worst defense in the NFL in 2013. There are questions surrounding the current unit after lackluster results in preseason.

Dallas will start the season against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday afternoon at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

An IBTimes Staff reporter contributed to this report.