Joe Burrow didn’t have much to say when asked about the latest LSU jersey-number dispute involving Jayden Daniels.
The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback was in the middle of preseason business against the Detroit Lions this week, but his name surfaced in Daniels’ frustration over how LSU handled the use of his number. Daniels’ attorney sent a letter to Tigers athletic director Verge Ausberry, and the family’s statement made clear how they feel about the decision.
“The Daniels family is deeply disappointed and feels profoundly disrespected by LSU’s decision to give Jayden’s number to another player,” the statement from Daniels’ spokesperson said. “Jayden and his family had every reason to believe that his number would remain a meaningful part of his LSU legacy and would be honored and protected in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the university.”
That number is 5, and sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett is the player wearing it this season. It’s the first time an LSU player has worn the jersey since Daniels was drafted by the Commanders.
The issue, at least from Daniels’ side, is that Burrow’s number has not been touched since he finished his LSU career. Daniels’ representative believes that difference matters, since no one has worn number 9 since Burrow left Baton Rouge.
Burrow was asked about it after the preseason game, and he said he was just catching up on the situation.
”I don’t know too much about it. I just heard about it a couple of hours ago.
I don’t necessarily have too many thoughts at this time. I just…I don’t know enough about the situation to have any thoughts, I would say.”
He was also asked about LSU not using his number since his departure, and Burrow said the school had told him it would stay retired.
“They told me that they wouldn’t use it again. But you never know what happens,” he said.
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