New Bengals DT Dexter Lawrence Wants Shemar Stewart's No. 97
Sports Illustrated • • general
Key Points:
- Dexter Lawrence, newly traded to the Cincinnati Bengals from the New York Giants, expressed interest in wearing No. 97, his longtime number, which is currently assigned to rookie Shemar Stewart.
- Lawrence plans to discuss the jersey number with Stewart, who has No. 97 but might consider switching numbers, potentially involving financial incentives.
- Stewart originally wanted No. 4, which is currently held by practice squad QB Sean Clifford, and the Bengals have rarely allowed defensive players to wear single-digit numbers until recent rule changes.
- Other jersey numbers in the 90s, 50s, 60s, and 70s are available for defensive players like Lawrence and Stewart if they decide not to switch to No. 97 or No. 4.
- The article also notes the rarity of non-quarterbacks or specialists wearing single-digit numbers for the Bengals, highlighting historical examples and potential number assignments for new safety Bryan Cook.
