RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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LSU football was in the news on Thursday, but it wasn't about anything on the field. ESPN reported that an attorney representing former LSU QB Jayden Daniels sent a cease-and-desist letter to LSU, instructing the Tigers to no longer use Daniels' name, image, and likeness.
ESPN reported the tension stemmed from LSU allowing sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett to wear No. 5 -- the number Daniels wore when he won the Heisman Trophy at LSU in 2023.
"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," a statement Daniels' spokesperson told ESPN.
Suddenly, Pickett found himself at the center of a headline story. Pickett held a press conference on Thursday and addressed the situation. So far, Pickett isn't fazed.
"About the number situation, worn the number my whole life, since I was four years old. It was a number I was promised and I wish Jayden the best," Pickett said.
Pickett signed with LSU as a five-star recruit in 2025. He saw immediate playing time on Blake Baker's defense and was one of the top true freshmen in the country. As Pickett enters his sophomore campaign, he's considered a potential All-American.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU CB DJ Pickett addresses Jayden Daniels number controversy
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