During LSU’s 51-10 rout of Clemson on Saturday, a tribute video featuring former Tigers now in the NFL played on Tiger Stadium’s jumbotron. When Jayden Daniels’ name appeared alongside K’Lavon Chaisson, the crowd’s response shifted from applause to loud boos. The reaction followed Daniels’ legal team sending LSU a cease-and-desist letter in August regarding the use of his name, image, and likeness (NIL).
Daniels’ jersey number, No. 5, was reassigned this season to sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett, a decision that has drawn public criticism from Daniels’ representatives. The cease-and-desist letter, sent by attorney Adam Kenner, demanded LSU immediately halt any commercial or promotional use of Daniels’ NIL, warning of legal action if the university continued such practices.
LSU’s athletic department has not publicly addressed the letter or the jersey reassignment. Daniels, who won the 2023 Heisman Trophy during his Heisman-winning season at LSU, threw for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns while adding 1,134 rushing yards and 10 rushing scores. His record 208.0 passer rating remains an FBS benchmark.
The reassignment of Daniels’ jersey number marks the first time since his departure that No. 5 has been worn by an active LSU player. The university has not officially retired the number, a decision that contrasts with the treatment of other LSU legends, such as Joe Burrow, whose No. 9 remains unassigned.
The cease-and-desist letter cited Daniels’ belief that LSU’s continued use of his NIL without permission constitutes a violation of his rights. The letter stated that any post-August use of his name, image, or likeness would be considered knowing and willful, subject to legal remedies. LSU has not responded publicly to the letter or the jersey reassignment.
Daniels’ legal team did not respond to requests for comment on the stadium reaction or the jersey’s reassignment. LSU’s athletic director, Verge Ausberry, also declined to comment on the matter. The university’s NIL policies and Daniels’ dispute remain unresolved as the season progresses.