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Travis Hunter Has Already Decided On His Patriots Jersey Number

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Dec 29, 2024 5:28 PM ET

Travis Hunter's past comments regarding his NFL jersey number gained extra relevance this weekend.

The New England Patriots fell to 3-13 when losing a 40-7 blowout to the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday. On Sunday, they watched the New York Giants improve to 3-13 with a 45-33 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. The Tennessee Titans are also 3-13, and the Cleveland Browns can join them if they lose to the Miami Dolphins, but the Patriots currently possess the No. 1 pick in next year's draft.

Considering they drafted Drake Maye this year, it's safe to say New England won't choose another quarterback. Unless they move down, the Patriots will likely select Hunter.

The Heisman Trophy winner wore No. 12 at Colorado, but he must change numbers if going to New England. Hunter already addressed that possibility.

Nearly two months ago, Hunter said on his podcast that he'd wear No. 40 if he went to a team where No. 12 isn't available.

"What if I go to the Patriots? Bro, I'm not gonna wear Tom Brady's number," Hunter said. "That's too much legacy in that jersey. I respect Tom Brady too much."

The Patriots retired Brady's No. 12 earlier this year. Nobody owns No. 40, so Hunter's backup plan would remain in play if New England drafts him.

Whether he's drafted as a wide receiver or defensive back, Hunter can wear a number from zero to 49 in the NFL. He'd also have access to 80 through 89 as a wideout.

According to ESPN, the Patriots have a 78.6 percent chance of landing next year's No. 1 pick and are certain to hold a top-five selection. They'll unofficially go on the clock next Sunday if losing their final game to the Buffalo Bills.

However, fans shouldn't pre-order any No. 40 Pats jerseys just yet. The Bills are already locked into the AFC's No. 2 seed, so they could rest Josh Allen and other key starters in Week 18. New England could also trade down.

As of Sunday, the New York Jets are the only other team picking inside the top 10 that has retired No. 12.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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