Denver Broncos rookie tight end Justin Joly is facing a familiar challenge for NFL newcomers: finding a new jersey number. After wearing a rotating set of digits in college—No. 7 and No. 15 at NC State, and No. 17 at Connecticut—Joly will need to pick something fresh for his pro debut.

Joly, a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, joins rookie running back Jonah Coleman in the number shuffle. His collegiate favorites are all off-limits in Denver. No. 7 is permanently retired for Broncos legend and Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway. Joly recently took to Twitter/X, asking fans to create a jersey swap image of him. One reply cheekily suggested, "Just ask John, you never know."

While No. 24 isn't officially retired, the Broncos typically avoid assigning it out of respect for Hall of Fame cornerback Champ Bailey. That leaves Joly's other college numbers—No. 15 and No. 17—also unavailable. Star pass rusher Nik Bonitto currently wears No. 15, and new wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has claimed No. 17.

So, what's left? The list of available numbers for Joly includes 5, 6, 43, 46, 80, 81, 85, 86, 87, and 89. As a tight end, the higher digits might feel more natural, but the rookie has some time to decide. The Broncos are set to hold their rookie minicamp from May 8-10, and fans can expect official jersey number news shortly after the players report.

For now, Joly's number hunt adds a little off-field drama to the Broncos' offseason—a reminder that even the smallest details matter when stepping into a franchise with such a rich history.