CJ Allen didn't expect to wear No. 53 when he first stepped into rookie minicamp with the Indianapolis Colts. But as the former Georgia linebacker quickly discovered, some jersey numbers are just meant to be.
Throughout his standout college career at the University of Georgia, Allen proudly wore No. 3 while emerging as one of the nation's top defensive players. But when he arrived in Indianapolis, that number was already taken by Colts kicker Spencer Shrader, sending Allen on a search for a new identity at the professional level.
At first glance, No. 53 seemed like just another linebacker number—nothing special, nothing flashy. But as Allen reflected on the assignment, the deeper meaning clicked into place. "It all started making sense — 53rd pick," Allen said with a grin. "It's a great linebacker number, especially here."
Indeed, the connection runs deeper than just his draft slot. The Indianapolis Colts selected Allen with the 53rd overall pick in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, after trading down from No. 47. But the number carries even more weight within the franchise's storied history.
Former Colts All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard famously wore No. 53 during one of the most dominant stretches by a defensive player in team history. Leonard earned AP Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2018 and became a three-time first-team AP All-Pro while wearing that number. For Allen, stepping into that jersey creates both inspiration and high expectations.
The Colts clearly believe Allen has what it takes to continue that linebacker tradition. At 6-foot-1 and 233 pounds, Allen built an impressive résumé at Georgia, appearing in 41 career games with 30 starts from 2023-25. His stat sheet reads like a defensive highlight reel: 205 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 11 passes defended, one interception, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
Allen's breakout 2025 season was the turning point that solidified his NFL draft stock. He recorded 88 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks while earning First Team All-America honors. Now, with a new number and a new team, he's ready to make No. 53 his own in Indianapolis.