Former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels has taken the unusual step of sending LSU a cease-and-desist letter, telling the school it can no longer use his name, image, and likeness.
The move follows LSU’s decision to give Daniels’ former No. 5 jersey to sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett. According to reporting, Daniels said he felt “profoundly disappointed” by the choice.
Pickett moved from No. 3 to No. 5 after Lane Kiffin said the number had been promised to the five-star defensive back during his recruitment by LSU’s previous coaching staff.
Daniels wore No. 5 for two seasons in Baton Rouge, then capped that stretch by winning the Heisman Trophy in 2023 before going No. 2 overall in the NFL Draft. ESPN noted that while Daniels’ jersey has not been retired, this is the first time another player has worn No. 5 since he left for the NFL.
“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.”
Pickett wore No. 3 in his first season with LSU in 2025, when he was named a freshman All-American. He finished with three interceptions, 37 tackles and one sack in 524 defensive snaps, while leading the Tigers in interceptions.
He was already in No. 5 when LSU opened preseason practice last week, which raised questions about why first-year LSU coach Lane Kiffin allowed the change.
“Jayden made it clear that he did not want his number given to another player, and he believed his wishes would be respected,” the statement said. “His Heisman Trophy-winning season and everything he accomplished on and off the field cemented his place in LSU history. To see his number given to another player is incredibly disappointing and feels like a failure to honor the significance of what Jayden accomplished at LSU.”
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