The NFL is learning of a shocking request from a family who lost their loved one way too soon. A legendary NFL running back wore the number 32, and there is now a push to get that number permanently removed from the game. Yes, you read that right. The family doesn’t want any team being able to wear that number.
Here are the details.
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Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on before Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on before Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
In order to avoid a painful milestone, Tanya Brown wants the NFL to retire OJ Simpson’s iconic No. 32 jersey number and return the focus to Nicole and Ron Goldman.
Ahead of the June 12th anniversary of Nicole and Ron’s murders, Tanya tells TMZ that the number has remained deeply associated with trauma for a number of people.
“It’s also the 32nd year of Nicole and Ron’s murders,” Tanya tells TMZ. “Every time I see someone on the field with that number, it brings me back and I have trauma.”
Tanya does not intend to launch an official campaign to force the issue, but she hopes that speaking out publicly will raise awareness about the significance of the anniversary for the families of the victims.
The number still carries an emotional burden for Tanya, who wants the league to understand this.
“I would love for the NFL to realize this is very triggering as a football fan as well,” she says. “I hope they take my statement into consideration and get rid of the number 32.”
Tanya is not merely committed to the abolition of the number. In the event that the NFL does not remove No. 32 from circulation, she would like the league to publicly dedicate the number to Nicole and Ron, encouraging players to wear it in memory of them.
Moreover, Tanya invites people to join candlelight vigils on June 12 at 8 p.m. through the Flock of Angels Network — a grief-support group that was created in Nicole’s memory. The gatherings will honor Nicole, Ron, and other victims of violence while giving people a place to share stories, photos, and memories of loved ones they’ve lost.
When people hear No. 32, Tanya wants them to remember Nicole and Ron, not OJ Simpson. The reqeust comes as the 32nd anniversary approaches.
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