Detroit Lions release new numbers for 27 players

TL;DR

The Detroit Lions have announced new jersey numbers for 27 players ahead of the 2026 season, including 18 newcomers and 9 returning players. Notably, Teddy Bridgewater has reclaimed his old No. 5 jersey after David Montgomery's trade to the Houston Texans.

Key points

Detroit Lions announced new jersey numbers for 27 players
18 new players and 9 returning players changed their numbers
Teddy Bridgewater reclaimed No. 5 jersey
David Montgomery's number became available after his trade
Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans

Detroit LionsHouston Texans

Detroit Lions release new numbers for 27 players

Eighteen new members of the Detroit Lions have chosen their numbers for the 2026 season, with another nine returning players changing their numbers from last year.

The Lions announced the number changes on social media on Monday, May 11, with the most notable change coming from returning backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. The veteran QB, returning for his third stint in Detroit, opted for his old No. 5 jersey, which he wore with five teams over eight seasons from 2014-21. That number belonged to running back David Montgomery from 2023-25 in Detroit and became available after Montgomery's March 2 trade to the Houston Texans.

Bridgewater previously wore Nos. 10 and 12 for the Lions in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan linebacker Jimmy Rolder (LB22) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images