Daniels issues cease-and-desist to LSU over jersey number dispute
Legal action follows claims that Louisiana State University breached contractual limits on name, image, and likeness usage, while coaching staff cite recruiting promises as justification for the number assignment.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has issued a formal cease-and-desist letter to Louisiana State University, demanding the institution halt the use of his name, image, and likeness. The legal action, delivered by attorney Adam Kenner to LSU athletics director Verge Ausberry on 5 August, stems from the university’s decision to allow cornerback DJ Pickett to wear the No. 5 jersey that Daniels wore during his Heisman Trophy-winning season in 2023.
Daniels’ family expressed deep disappointment, stating they felt profoundly disrespected by the administration’s choice to assign the number to another player. A spokesperson for Daniels noted that the family had every reason to believe the number would be protected in recognition of his contributions to the university. The dispute highlights a tension between institutional policy and the expectations of former student-athletes regarding the legacy of their achievements.
LSU head coach Lane Kiffin defended the decision, stating that Pickett was promised the No. 5 jersey during his recruitment in December 2024. Kiffin emphasised that the promise was made before he arrived at the university and that honouring recruitment commitments was a priority. He indicated that he did not have the discretion to override the agreement, noting that Pickett had worn the number as a high school star in Florida.
Former LSU coach Brian Kelly confirmed he was aware of the promise but refused to issue the number to Pickett during his tenure. Kelly cited a desire to treat Daniels’ legacy similarly to that of Joe Burrow, whose No. 9 jersey has not been reissued since Burrow won the Heisman Trophy and led the team to a national championship in 2019. Kelly stated he was not prepared to issue Daniels’ number without a full commitment from another Heisman winner to ensure equitable treatment.
The cease-and-desist letter cites that Daniels’ contract with LSU permitted the use of his likeness for only 180 days beyond his final college game. Kenner warned that any further use of Daniels’ name, image, or likeness would be deemed knowing and willful, with legal remedies to be pursued vigorously. LSU has not yet publicly responded to the letter, while the university’s current policy allows current student-athletes to wear retired jersey numbers subject to the head coach’s discretion, with the exception of No. 20.
