Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 20: Marcus Mariota #18 of the Washington Commanders warms up prior to the game against the Carolina Panthers at Northwest Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
The 2025 Washington Commanders are entering the season with fresh faces, a renewed culture, and even a handful of uniform changes. For fans who keep a close eye on details, jersey numbers are more than digits. They carry identity, history, and a sense of pride. This year, five Commanders players are starting fresh with new numbers, giving the roster a different look and feel.
Veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota leads the group, switching to No. 8 as he looks to continue to carve out a role behind starter Jayden Daniels. Offensive tackle George Fant, tight end Colson Yankoff, defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, and safety Tyler Owens join him in making adjustments that will stand out to fans on Sundays.
Let’s break down the five number changes that Washington fans will see in 2025.
Marcus Mariota Headlines the List
Mariota has worn several numbers in his NFL career, but his move to No. 8 resonates. The former Heisman Trophy winner made his name at Oregon with that number, and he now returns to it in Washington. For Mariota, the switch feels like a reset as he embraces a new chapter and offers veteran leadership to the Commanders quarterback room. Fans can expect to see No. 8 under center if called upon in an emergency behind starter Jayden Daniels.
Offensive tackle Fant, one of Washington’s reliable veteran additions, takes No. 77 this season. The number carries traditional weight for offensive linemen, and Fant will be counted on to provide depth and experience at both tackle spots.
Yankoff moves to No. 80, a classic number for pass catchers. Yankoff is a developmental player who has steadily improved since converting to the position. Wearing a number that has been carried by many reliable NFL tight ends, he hopes to make his mark and potentially crack the rotation behind Zach Ertz and John Bates.
Defense Gets a Fresh Look Too
On the defensive side, Kinlaw’s decision to switch to No. 99 is fitting for his powerful style. Known for his size and explosiveness in the middle of the defensive line, Kinlaw embraces a number that symbolizes dominance in the trenches. The change gives him a chance to define himself in Washington after his time in San Francisco and in New York last season with the Jets. Fans will look for No. 99 to be a disruptive force.
Second year safety Owens, brings energy to the secondary with his switch to No. 18. While uncommon for a defensive back, the number makes him stand out on the field and fits his unique athletic profile. Owens has already flashed promise with his speed and physicality, and his new number gives him an identity that fans can quickly latch onto.
Jersey numbers may seem small, but for players and fans they symbolize pride, confidence, and a fresh start. With Mariota, Fant, Yankoff, Kinlaw, and Owens all making changes, the Commanders are adding new energy to their 2025 identity. Fans can expect to see these fresh numbers pop on game day as Washington looks to build momentum in the season ahead.