Garrett Wilson plans to wear the No. 5 he wore at Ohio State for the New York Jets – but not until 2024.
Wilson announced Monday on Twitter that he plans to continue wearing No. 17 for the 2023 season but will switch to No. 5 in 2024.
Im in 17 this season. 5 the season following. Wanted to let yall kno
— Garrett Wilson (@GarrettWilson_V) April 17, 2023
Why is Wilson waiting until next year to change his number? Per NFL rules, Wilson would have to pay for all remaining inventory of his No. 17 jerseys if he changed his number now. By notifying the NFL a year in advance, however, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is free to change his jersey number next year without penalty.
No. 5 was not available when Wilson was drafted by the Jets last year, as quarterback Mike White wore the number until he left for the Miami Dolphins in free agency this offseason.
