Terrion Arnold is changing his jersey number as he enters his second NFL season. The Detroit Lions cornerback is switching from No. 0 to No. 6 to pay tribute to his former Alabama teammate, Khyree Jackson, who tragically passed away in a car accident last July.
Arnold and Jackson both played cornerback for Alabama during the 2021 and 2022 seasons before Jackson transferred to Oregon. Arnold was selected 24th overall by the Lions in the 2024 NFL Draft, while Jackson was picked in the fourth round by the Minnesota Vikings.
Jackson had planned to wear No. 31 with the Vikings, but he previously wore No. 6 while at Alabama. In honor of Jackson, the Vikings placed “KJ” decals on their helmets and did not assign his number to another player.
Arnold explained his decision on Alabama’s New Wave Podcast, saying he wanted to honor Jackson’s legacy and recognize the meaningful influence Jackson had on his life.
Arnold started 15 games during his rookie season with the Detroit Lions but was carted off the field in Week 18 against the Minnesota Vikings. He returned two weeks later for the playoffs, recording six tackles in the Lions’ season-ending loss to the Washington Commanders.
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