Full Breakdown
LSU Jersey No. 5 Dispute: Daniels vs. Pickett
8/15/2026, 1:46:06 AM
Core Event
LSU assigned sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett the No. 5 jersey—the number worn by former Heisman winner Jayden Daniels in 2022-23. Daniels’ representatives sent a cease-and-desist letter demanding the university stop using his name, image and likeness (NIL) and that the number not be reissued. Pickett says he will not change numbers, prompting comments from coaches, former players and legal analysts.
Background & Context
- Heisman legacy: LSU’s three Heisman winners are Billy Cannon (No. 20, retired), Joe Burrow (No. 9, promised not to be used again) and Jayden Daniels (No. 5, not formally retired).
- Jersey policy: LSU bylaws (effective Jan. 1, 2007) keep numbers retired before that date unavailable; numbers retired after may be reassigned at the head coach’s discretion.
- Recruiting promise: Former coach Brian Kelly told Pickett in December 2024 he could wear No. 5. New head coach Lane Kiffin reaffirmed the promise for the 2025 season.
Data & Statistics
- No. 5 has not been worn since Daniels left for the NFL in 2024.
- No. 9 has not been worn since Burrow’s 2019 season.
- LSU has officially retired only Billy Cannon’s No. 20; other historic numbers (e.g., Pete Maravich 23, Shaquille O’Neal 33) were retired before the 2007 policy and remain off-limits.
Official Statements & Responses
- Damien Pickett (father): Disappointed the issue “blown up about a number” and praised his son’s connection to the jersey.
- LSU athletic department: Declined comment.
- Joe Burrow (former quarterback): Said he was told his No. 9 would not be used again and added, “you never know what happens.”
- Attorney David Vicknair: Said the legal question hinges on the specific language of Daniels’ NIL contract and the 180-day post-contract window, describing the issue as “grey.”
Criticism & Opposition
Daniels’ camp argues LSU broke an implied promise to protect the legacy of his No. 5, calling the university’s action a “profound disrespect” compared with how Burrow’s number was treated.
Verbatim Quotes
- “DJ is in (No.) 5, and that was a situation that was promised to him in recruiting here, for him to sign here,” — Lane Kiffin
- “I've worn the number my whole life, since I was 4 years old,” — Damien Pickett
- “I just heard about it a couple hours ago,” — Joe Burrow
- “We never in a million years would have thought that it would come to this about a number, but we’re here,” — Damien Pickett
Timeline
- August 5: LSU receives Daniels’ cease-and-desist letter; Kiffin reiterates the recruiting promise at a press conference.
- August 13: After a preseason win, Burrow is asked about jersey policies and repeats the promise that his No. 9 would not be used again.
What’s Next
Legal analysts say the dispute will depend on the wording of Daniels’ NIL agreement and the 180-day window. LSU has not set a decision timeline, and both sides seek a private resolution.
