Darrelle Revis, the centerpiece of the biggest trade of the NFL offseason, has worn the number 24 his entire NFL career. Now, $50,000 later, he will be able to rock the same number in Tampa Bay, according to reports.
Revis reportedly paid off Bucs' second-year safety Mark Barron, who claimed he had no real attachment to the jersey number. He will move forward as No. 23 for Tampa Bay. Revis' No. 24 was one of the better-selling jerseys in the league, and despite wearing No. 25 in college with the Pittsburgh Panthers, he clearly has developed an affinity for No. 24.
Pro-footballtalk.com reports that it is unclear whether or not any of the parties involved had to pay Nike for the new inventory that becomes necessary as the result of jersey switches. In the past, any significant jersey changes were accompanied by a bill from Reebok, due to lost profits from now outdated inventory.
Buccaneers fans likely don't care which number Revis wears, as long as he replicates his stellar play from his days as a New York Jet. Last season Revis was limited to two games, suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament against the Miami Dolphins.
Prior to last season Revis was universally considered the top cornerback in the league. He was selected as a first team All-Pro three years running, and had made four consecutive Pro Bowls.
In his career Revis has made 19 interceptions, recovered three fumbles and scored three touchdowns. He also has a reputation for being a superb tackler at his position; he has made 294 tackles in seven seasons, the seventh of which lasted less than two full games.
The Buccaneers are counting on Revis to solidify one of the NFL's worst pass defenses in 2012, and gave up their first round draft choice to bring him on board the pirate ship.
The Jets wound up with Sheldon Richardson, a defensive tackle from Missouri with Tampa Bay's pick.
© 2023 Sportsworldnews.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
