Multiple NFL Rookies Assigned Jersey Numbers at Rookie Minicamps

As NFL rookie minicamps commence, many recent college draftees are adopting new jersey numbers with their professional teams. Texas Longhorns draftees such as cornerback Jahdae Barron, defensive tackle Alfred Collins, and quarterback Quinn Ewers are all wearing new numbers, with Barron notably joining the Denver Broncos at No. 12, pairing alongside Patrick Surtain II to strengthen their defense. Similarly, Denver Broncos rookies often receive provisional numbers that may change before the regular season, exemplified by RJ Harvey taking No. 37 and receiver Pat Bryant wearing No. 13 initially. Across the league, rookies frequently must change their college numbers due to NFL roster constraints and veteran precedence, as seen with Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard switching from No. 13 to No. 15 with the Indianapolis Colts. Ohio State’s 2025 draft class offers a mix, with several players retaining their college numbers while others adopt new ones, indicating the variability in number assignments based on team availability and seniority. Overall, jersey number changes among rookies highlight both tradition and adaptation as players transition from college to the NFL.