How Far Will Players Go to Get Their Preferred Number? Za’Darius Smith Shows Us the Value of No. 99.
When defensive end Za’Darius Smith arrived in Detroit after being traded from the Browns, one of his first moves was to claim his preferred jersey number: 99. It’s a number with significance for Smith, who wore it proudly in Cleveland, and he wanted to carry that legacy to the Lions. However, that decision came with a price.
The Negotiation for No. 99
Smith quickly discovered that No. 99 was already taken by Lions defensive tackle Brodric Martin. Despite not playing this season, Martin held the number, which presented a challenge for Smith. NFL rules typically prevent mid-season number changes for active players, but Martin’s lack of field time meant an exception could be made if Martin agreed.
“I was offered numbers in the 60s, 70s, or 80s,” Smith recalled. “I was like, no way.” So, he reached out to Martin to propose a deal, and after a quick discussion, Martin agreed to let Smith take over No. 99—at a cost.
The Price of Legacy
Smith hinted at the going rate, describing it as “three zeros on the end,” though he left the exact figure undisclosed. With estimates ranging between $1,000 and $9,000, Smith assured reporters that Martin “is going to have some good money.” For Smith, this wasn’t just about a number; it was about maintaining a sense of continuity and pride, symbolized by the jersey he’d worn previously.
The negotiation between Smith and Martin demonstrates that in the NFL, numbers often hold deep personal significance for players, representing memories, achievements, or personal identity on the field. This pursuit shows just how much athletes are willing to invest to stay connected to those markers of their career, even when it comes with a literal price tag.
A Look at NFL Jersey Swaps
Smith’s story is just one of many in the NFL where players negotiate for their preferred numbers. For some, it’s an exchange of cash; for others, it might be something sentimental or symbolic. Either way, these exchanges emphasize the meaning behind the numbers that fans see on game day—and the dedication players have to preserving that part of their identity.
Now, Smith can move forward with his Detroit Lions journey, equipped with his signature No. 99 jersey and the legacy he continues to build. As he steps onto the field, fans and teammates alike will see more than just a number; they’ll see a story of pride, commitment, and the lengths to which players go to feel at home in their gear.
