Commanders QB Jayden Daniels sends LSU cease-and-desist after No. 5 jersey given to CB DJ Pickett

Jayden Daniels, the former quarterback for LSU, has sent a cease-and-desist letter to the university demanding they stop using his name, image and likeness, specifically over the number 5. The issue arose when the LSU Tigers allowed sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett to wear the same jersey number this season.

Daniels' former school had not retired his number, which was last worn by him during his Heisman Trophy-winning season in 2023. Daniels and his family expressed disappointment over the decision, stating they felt disrespected that his number was given to another player.

The Commanders selected Daniels second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. He now plays for the Washington Commanders, while his old number is not being used by a player at LSU. In contrast, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who won the Heisman Trophy at LSU, has not worn his No. 9 since 2019.

Pickett, who played as a freshman last season, had three interceptions and 37 total tackles. He was reportedly promised to wear No. 5 when he was recruited to LSU in 2024. Former LSU coach Brian Kelly had also mentioned Pickett's promise to wear the number. However, former coach Brian Kelly resigned last season.