LSU CB DJ Pickett has a New Number

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA - MARCH 31: Elite five-star cornerback DJ Pickett, wearing the number 3 jersey, stands during spring practice at the LSU Football Operations Center last season. (Photo by Ella Hall/University Images via Getty Images) Pickett, hailed as the highest-rated cornerback in his recruiting class, quickly became a fan favorite and essential part of the LSU defense.

Last season, he emerged as a True Freshman All-American. However, during practice on March 31, 2026, it was observed that Pickett was now donning No. 5, a number he had previously worn throughout high school and in recruitment photos. During a subsequent press conference, head coach Lane Kiffin addressed the change, revealing that Pickett had been promised the No. 5 jersey during the recruitment process.

Kiffin acknowledged that he had conducted extensive research with Pickett’s family and representatives to understand the reason behind the promise, but ultimately the promise remained unfulfilled. Despite the situation being set before his tenure, Kiffin decided to honor the commitment, emphasizing his commitment to building trust with players by keeping their promises.

This sets a precedent for LSU, as the last player to wear No. 5 was Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels. The tradition of not reissuing jersey numbers of Heisman Trophy winners, held by Billy Cannon and Joe Burrow, is now up for discussion. Kiffin's decision to honor the promise reflects his dedication to player trust and loyalty, a value that extends beyond financial aspects of the recruiting process.