Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels’ relationship with his alma mater appears to be on the rocks. The former LSU Tigers star signal-caller is sending a strong message to the university through legal action, with his attorney reportedly filing a cease-and-desist letter.
Daniels’ camp wants LSU to stop using the quarterback’s name, image and likeness. Apparently, the signal-caller did not like that the Tigers allowed LSU sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett to don the No. 5 jersey, which Daniels wore during his time with the school.
It remains to be seen how this brewing drama will conclude, but fans are already using the situation to make fun of Daniels online.
“Mommy there’s another tiger wearing number 5” pic.twitter.com/eKbKp55a1E
— MDR82 (@mattydr82) August 13, 2026
Jayden Daniels the next time he steps foot in Louisiana… pic.twitter.com/GbhjyLUir6
— BetUS Sportsbook & Casino (@BetUS_Official) August 13, 2026
Jayden Daniels after seeing his number being given to a random 😭 pic.twitter.com/AJOC16wulk
— A̳A̳r̳o̳n̳┆✞︎ `³⁰☄️ (@Reigns_AAronn) August 13, 2026
— RainyCityRaider ☠️ 🇬🇧 (@RainyCityRaider) August 13, 2026
— ROC 🖤♠️🏴✊🏾✊🏿✊🏼✊🏻✊✊🏾 (@ROCIMILLY) August 13, 2026
Until Pickett, no LSU player had worn No. 5 since Daniels left LSU to turn pro in 2024. The Tigers have not retired the number, but Daniels’ family made it clear to ESPN, via a spokesperson, that they are “deeply disappointed” by LSU’s decision to let another player use No. 5.
This is likely not the last time Daniels will get ridiculed by fans over this development. He can expect to hear more in the coming season, with opposing fans having new material to use in an attempt to distract him during games.
Daniels started his college career with the Arizona State Sun Devils before transferring to LSU. In two seasons with the Tigers, he passed for 6,725 yards and 57 touchdowns with only seven interceptions, while winning the Heisman Trophy in 2023.
