A New Number for the Defensive Front
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence has officially claimed his signature jersey number, No. 97, after a successful arrangement with defensive end Shemar Stewart. The veteran defensive lineman, who prioritized maintaining his long-standing jersey identity, wasted little time in securing the digit upon joining the roster.
The Negotiation Process
Speaking with the media earlier this week, Stewart confirmed that he agreed to relinquish the number in exchange for a confidential financial payment. Stewart noted that the decision was straightforward, emphasizing his respect for Lawrence’s professional reputation.
«Man, he earned that, so it's his number. So I had no right to keep that number,» Stewart said. «Dex was like, 'What you want for the number?' I told him a reasonable number. And he's like, 'OK.' I told him, 'I'm not gonna be the one to stop you from getting your number. I'm not that type of guy. You're probably like a walking legend.'»
Roster Adjustments
Following the trade, Stewart has transitioned to No. 94, a jersey previously occupied by Sam Hubbard between 2018 and 2024. The number was worn last season by defensive tackle Jordan Jefferson, who has now opted to switch his own number to 68.