The Texas Tech football team this spring has 18 transfers from NCAA schools, 9 freshmen early enrollees and four returning players with new numbers.
The Texas Tech Red Raiders are entering the 2025 spring football season with a significant transformation: 31 players have adopted new jersey numbers. This change is part of a broader evolution within the program, reflecting both individual aspirations and the team’s collective identity.
The Significance of Jersey Numbers
In football, a player’s jersey number is more than just an identifier; it often carries personal significance, represents a player’s role, or honors past legends. At Texas Tech, this tradition is deeply ingrained. For instance, the late E.J. Holub, a standout linebacker and center, was the first player in the university’s history to have his jersey number (55) retired, underscoring the profound legacy associated with certain numbers.
Notable Number Changes
Among the 31 players with new numbers this spring, several stand out:
Cam’Ron Valdez: The senior running back has transitioned to jersey number 0. Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 200 lbs, Valdez hails from Rockdale, Texas, and has been a pivotal player in the Red Raiders’ offense.
A.J. McCarty: This senior defensive back now dons the number 1 jersey. At 6’0″ and 190 lbs, McCarty’s roots trace back to Brownwood, Texas, where he began his journey to collegiate football prominence.
Behren Morton: The senior quarterback has embraced the number 2 jersey. Measuring 6’2″ and 220 lbs, Morton originates from Eastland, Texas, and is anticipated to lead the team’s offense with poise and precision.
The Luke Siegel Tribute
A particularly poignant aspect of the jersey number assignments is the honoring of Luke Siegel. Luke, the son of former Texas Tech tennis coach Tim Siegel, tragically passed away at the age of 15 following a golf cart accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. His preferred jersey number, 3, has been immortalized within the team. Head coach Joey McGuire has instituted a tradition where the number 3 jersey is awarded to a player who exemplifies unparalleled toughness, dedication, and spirit—qualities that Luke embodied. This season, the honor is bestowed upon a deserving player, ensuring Luke’s legacy continues to inspire.
The Adidas Partnership and Uniform Evolution
The 2024-25 season marked a new era for Texas Tech athletics with the commencement of a 10-year partnership with Adidas, succeeding their previous collaboration with Under Armour. This alliance has introduced revamped uniforms that blend modern aesthetics with the Red Raiders’ storied traditions. Notably, Texas Tech alumnus and NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes played a pivotal role in facilitating this partnership. His ‘Gladiator’ logo is now featured on co-branded Adidas Texas Tech apparel, symbolizing the fusion of past achievements and future aspirations.
Roster Dynamics and Depth
The spring roster comprises 114 players, with 87 returning from the previous season and 27 newcomers. These additions include nine freshmen who graduated early and 18 transfers from other collegiate programs, eight of whom hail from “Power Four” institutions. This diverse roster underscores Texas Tech’s commitment to blending seasoned experience with fresh talent, aiming for a harmonious and competitive team dynamic.
Anticipation for the Upcoming Season
As the Red Raiders gear up for the 2025 season, the reshuffling of jersey numbers symbolizes more than just a change in attire; it reflects personal growth, homage to legacies, and the team’s evolving identity. With a blend of returning veterans and promising newcomers, Texas Tech is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await how these changes will translate on the field, hopeful for a season marked by resilience, unity, and success.
In conclusion, the 31 players adopting new jersey numbers this spring epitomize the dynamic nature of college football, where tradition meets transformation. At Texas Tech, these numbers carry stories of personal ambition, tribute to past heroes, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the season unfolds, these narratives will intertwine, enriching the tapestry of Red Raiders football.
