LSU declines to return replica Heisman Trophy to quarterback Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels' representatives have asked LSU to return a replica of his 2023 Heisman Trophy, but the university says it will not comply, amid a dispute over jersey number usage.
Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders quarterback who won the Heisman Trophy in 2023 while playing for LSU, has asked the university to return a replica of the award. His representatives also requested that LSU stop using his name, image and likeness, and that a statue modeled after former LSU player Ed Smith be returned. LSU officials have indicated they have no plans to return the trophy replica.
The disagreement stems from a broader conflict over the use of Daniels' former jersey number. LSU had previously promised not to reassign the number, but later allocated it to incoming cornerback DJ Pickett, prompting Daniels' camp to allege a breach of promise. The university’s current coaching staff has chosen to honor the commitment to Pickett, while maintaining its stance on the trophy request.
"We have no intention of returning the Heisman replica," a university spokesperson said.
The situation has drawn public attention to the handling of jersey number retirements and promises made to student-athletes during recruiting.