Chiefs’ roster shake-up
As the NFL offseason winds down, teams are making their final roster adjustments and assigning new jersey numbers to players. It’s like a game of musical chairs, but with numbers on jerseys instead.
Take punter Matt Araiza for example. He started off with No. 49 when he joined the Kansas City Chiefs, but now he’s rocking the No. 14 jersey, which used to belong to wide receiver Cornell Powell. It’s all part of the annual roster number shuffle as new players settle in and others make way for them.
Defensive end Cameron Thomas also got in on the action. He snagged No. 99, the same number he wore in college at San Diego State. This meant that defensive tackle Fabien Lovett had to switch things up when he returned to the Chiefs practice squad. No. 99 was taken, so Lovett opted for No. 96 instead.
The Chiefs have been busy doling out new numbers to their latest additions. Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schusteris now sporting No. 9, a number he’s familiar with from his time at USC and his first stint with the Chiefs. Meanwhile, running back Samaje Perine has stuck with his trusty No. 34, which he’s worn for most of his NFL career, including his time with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The champ is back. We have officially signed @TeamJuJu! pic.twitter.com/jEHJxOQaQE
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) August 26, 2024
The significance of jersey numbers:
Tight end Peyton Hendershot also got a new number, trading in his old No. 49 and 89 from Dallas for the No. 88 jersey in Kansas City. It’s all part of the fresh start for these players as they gear up for the upcoming season.
Even the practice squad has seen some jersey number changes. Quarterback Bailey Zappe now rocks No. 19, while running back Emani Bailey bumped up to No. 40. Defensive tackle Marlon Tuipulotu switched to No. 92, and Fabien Lovett made his move to No. 96 after his return to the practice squad.
It’s not just about getting a new number; it’s about finding a new identity within the team. Each player’s number holds significance and history, whether it’s from their college days or previous NFL stints.
Chiefs Players Swap Jersey Numbers as New Season Starts https://t.co/JUgS26rqzy
— In Jersey (@in_Jersey) September 2, 2024
As wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster put it, “Your jersey number is a part of your football identity. It represents where you’ve been and where you’re going in your career.”
Running back Samaje Perine echoed this sentiment, saying, “My jersey number is like my second skin on the field. It’s a part of my football journey and the path I’ve taken to get here.”
source:marca.com
