In a gesture that highlights the importance of jersey numbers to professional athletes, veteran NFL linebacker Za’Darius Smith reportedly paid Detroit Lions rookie defensive tackle Brodric Martin thousands of dollars for the right to wear No. 99. Smith, known for his dynamic pass-rushing ability and leadership on the field, has worn No. 99 throughout much of his career, and he was eager to keep his signature number after joining the Lions.
The Significance of No. 99 for Smith
For Za’Darius Smith, the No. 99 jersey has become more than just a number—it’s a part of his identity on the field. Having worn the number with previous teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, and Baltimore Ravens, Smith sees it as a symbol of his journey, accomplishments, and the hard work that has defined his career.
Upon joining Detroit, however, Smith learned that rookie Brodric Martin had already claimed No. 99. Rather than seek another number, Smith approached Martin with a proposal. While it’s not uncommon for veteran players to negotiate with teammates over jersey numbers, Smith’s offer reflects his attachment to the number and his desire to keep his career identity intact.
The Deal with Brodric Martin
Reports indicate that Smith paid Martin a significant amount of money—reportedly in the thousands—for the rights to wear No. 99 in Detroit. For Martin, who is in the early stages of his NFL career, the deal likely provided a welcome financial boost. The rookie ultimately agreed, allowing Smith to retain his preferred number.
Martin’s willingness to make the trade highlights the respect and camaraderie often found among NFL players, especially between rookies and veterans. By allowing Smith to take over No. 99, Martin demonstrated flexibility and respect for the veteran, understanding the significance the number holds for Smith.
The Tradition of Jersey Negotiations in the NFL
Jersey number negotiations are nothing new in the NFL, where many players have deep personal connections to the numbers they wear. These negotiations sometimes involve money, gifts, or even charitable donations, as veterans try to secure the numbers that hold sentimental or motivational value. For Smith, No. 99 represents not just his NFL history but also his unique style and impact on the field, something he wasn’t willing to part with.
What It Means for Smith and the Lions
Now reunited with his iconic No. 99, Za’Darius Smith can enter the season with a sense of continuity, bringing his signature number and his years of experience to Detroit’s defense. As a proven pass-rusher and defensive leader, Smith is expected to play a key role in elevating the Lions’ defense. Wearing No. 99, he aims to continue his reputation as a game-changer who can disrupt opposing offenses.
For fans and teammates, seeing Smith in No. 99 is a familiar sight that reinforces his veteran presence on the team.
As he joins Detroit’s roster, Smith is expected to bring not only his skill but also the leadership that comes with years of experience—a quality that could make a major difference as the Lions push for a strong season.
Moving Forward
For Za’Darius Smith, wearing No. 99 in Detroit is more than a fashion statement—it’s a tribute to his journey and a continuation of his legacy in the league.
Thanks to Brodric Martin’s cooperation, Smith can move forward in his Lions career with a sense of ownership over his role and identity, symbolized by the number he fought to keep.
As Smith takes the field in Detroit’s colors, fans will be watching to see how he leverages his experience and trademark number to make an impact this season.
