On April 3, 2025, the Detroit Lions made waves in the NFL by announcing a series of jersey number changes for the upcoming season, reflecting both new beginnings and a nod to the past. Among the most notable shifts are wide receiver Jameson Williams and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who are both changing their jersey numbers as they look to make their marks on the field.
Jameson Williams, who previously wore No. 9, is switching to No. 1, a number that holds special significance for him. Williams donned No. 1 during his standout college career at Alabama and had expressed interest in it before but opted for No. 9 after a conversation with former quarterback Matthew Stafford. "I wanted No. 1 when I got here, but it just didn’t happen. Now, I’m ready to take it back," Williams said, reflecting on his decision to reclaim the number.
Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs is making a bold move by changing from No. 26 to No. 0. This transition marks a significant moment for Gibbs, who has carried the number 26 since his entry into the NFL. "I’m excited to wear No. 0 this season. It’s a fresh start, and I want to make it my own," Gibbs stated during the announcement. He will become the fourth player in Lions history to wear the number, following fullback Johnny Olszewski, wide receiver Marvin Jones, and cornerback Terrion Arnold, who wore it last season.
In addition to Williams and Gibbs, several other players are also changing their numbers. Cornerback Terrion Arnold, who wore No. 0 as a rookie last season, is now taking No. 6. This change is part of the Lions' broader strategy to refresh their roster and create a new identity as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The full list of jersey number changes announced by the Lions includes:
- No. 0 - RB Jahmyr Gibbs (previously 26)
- No. 1 - WR Jameson Williams (previously 9)
- No. 4 - CB D.J. Reed (new signing)
- No. 6 - CB Terrion Arnold (previously 0)
- No. 9 - CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (previously 15)
- No. 10 - WR Ronnie Bell (new signing)
- No. 12 - WR Tim Patrick (previously 17)
- No. 15 - LB Grant Stuard (new signing)
- No. 23 - CB Rock Ya-Sin (new signing)
- No. 26 - DB Morice Norris (previously 39)
- No. 51 - DL Roy Lopez (new signing)
- No. 88 - TE Kenny Yeboah (new signing)
- No. 96 - EDGE Al-Quadin Muhammad (previously 69)
- No. 99 - DL Brodric Martin (previously 98)
These changes come as part of the NFL's expanded jersey number flexibility, which allows running backs, tight ends, wide receivers, and fullbacks to wear numbers between 0-49 and 80-89, while defensive backs can wear 0-49, and defensive linemen have options between 50-79 and 90-99. This flexibility, implemented in 2021, has allowed players more freedom in choosing numbers that resonate with them.
For Gibbs, the switch to No. 0 is particularly meaningful. He has worn No. 1 during his college career at Alabama and No. 21 at Georgia Tech, making this change a symbolic return to his roots. As he steps into the new season, Gibbs aims to build on an impressive rookie year where he rushed for 945 yards and led the league with 16 rushing touchdowns.
With these jersey changes, the Lions are not only refreshing their roster but also paying homage to their history and the players who came before them. As the team gears up for the 2025 season, fans are eager to see how these new numbers translate on the field.
In addition to the number changes, the Lions are also preparing for a significant season ahead, with expectations high after their recent success as defending NFC North champions. The excitement around the team is palpable, and the new jersey numbers are just one aspect of the changes taking place as they look to build on their previous successes.
As the Lions continue to finalize their roster and prepare for the upcoming season, fans can look forward to seeing these new numbers in action. With players like Gibbs and Williams leading the charge, the Lions are poised for an exciting year ahead. The anticipation is building as the team prepares to take the field with a renewed sense of purpose and identity.
In a league that values both tradition and innovation, the Detroit Lions are embracing change while honoring their past. As they step into the 2025 season, the new jersey numbers reflect a commitment to growth and a determination to make their mark in the NFL.
