Daniels sends LSU cease-and-desist letter regarding decision to give No. 5 jersey to current player

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has sent a cease-and-desist letter to LSU, prohibiting the university from using his name, image, and likeness. This decision follows LSU's announcement that cornerback D.J. Pickett will wear the No. 5 jersey, a number previously worn by Daniels during his time at LSU.

ESPN obtained a copy of the letter, which states that Daniels' stance was due to his objection to the school giving his number to another player. Daniels' spokesperson confirmed that the Heisman Trophy winner did not want his number to be assigned to another athlete, emphasizing that his accomplishments at LSU should be honored.

Pickett, a five-star recruit and former LSU football player, will now wear the No. 5 jersey starting this season, having initially been assigned No. 3 as a freshman. LSU coach Lane Kiffin stated that he respects Pickett's promise to wear No. 5 when he joined the team in December 2024, as the decision rested with the previous coach, Brian Kelly, who was subsequently fired. Kiffin expressed his belief that honoring Pickett's request is the right course of action.