LSU cornerback DJ Pickett is resolutely holding onto the No. 5 jersey, asserting it is his rightful possession as he prepares for the next football season with the Tigers.
Former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels may be pushing back on this decision, but Pickett remains firm in his choice to don the coveted jersey number next year.
“I’ve worn the number my entire life, starting at just 4 years old,” Pickett told reporters on Thursday, according to ESPN. “LSU promised me this number. While I wish Jayden all the best, he’s a strong player with impressive accomplishments at LSU, that’s where my opinion stands.”
Pickett’s remarks were made in the wake of Daniels sending a cease-and-desist letter to LSU, demanding the university cease using his name, image, and likeness (NIL) after handing over his No. 5 jersey to the sophomore standout in defense.
A spokesperson for the Daniels family expressed their profound disappointment with LSU’s decision, as noted by ESPN. “The Daniels family feels deeply disrespected by LSU giving Jayden’s number to another player. They believed it would remain a key part of his legacy at LSU, recognizing his significant contributions to the university,” the statement read.
Daniels, 25, spent two seasons at LSU, winning the 2023 Heisman Trophy after racking up 3,812 passing yards with 40 touchdowns, helping lead the Tigers to a 10-3 record.
Now entering his third NFL season with the Commanders, Daniels insisted that all of his focus is on training camp with Washington, saying in a statement that he hopes everything can “be resolved.”
“I have been locked in on training camp and that’s been my number one focus,” Daniels said. “I have a lot of gratitude for my time at LSU and I’m proud of what my teammates and I accomplished there. Obviously there are issues to be worked out between my team and LSU and my hope is that it will get done privately.
“My sole personal focus is on Commanders’ football. I realize the business of football is unique and I trust this can all be resolved.”