The New England Patriots made 11 selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. 11 new players means 11 jersey numbers to be assigned. However, the Patriots gave away a franchise legend's number to a rookie.
The Patriots drafted wide receiver Kyle Williams from Washington State University in the third round of the draft. Williams wore No.2 in college, but Harold Landry III has that number right now. Williams was assigned No.18, which once belonged to legendary special teams player Matthew Slater.
Slater was a 10-time Pro Bowler, a two-time All-Pro and a three-time Super Bowl champion.