LSU to Retire Quarterback Bert Jones’ Number 7

Jones’ College Dominance

Jones learned of the decision out of the blue, saying he “had no idea that there was anything in the works so this is totally unsuspecting.” He added that seeing his name and number displayed in Tiger Stadium, where multiple family members once played, feels especially meaningful, and he will share the honor with his LSU roommate Tommy Casanova. The jersey will be hung up when LSU faces Texas on November 14 in Tiger Stadium, marking a historic moment for the program.

Retirement Honors a Legacy

Jones’ résumé from 1970 to 1972 shows a starter who guided the Tigers to a 26‑6‑1 record, three bowl victories and the 1970 SEC championship. His career totals include 3,255 passing yards, 28 touchdown passes, 418 attempts and 220 completions. The 1972 season was his standout year: a program‑record 1,446 yards and 14 touchdowns, All‑American honors and a fourth‑place Heisman finish. The LSU Athletic Hall of Fame Committee voted unanimously to retire his No. 7, making him the fifth Tiger honored alongside Billy Cannon (20), Tommy Casanova (37), Jerry Stovall (21) and Charles Alexander (4). Because Cannon’s 20 remains the only permanently retired number, the No. 7 jersey will likely stay available for future players.

From SEC Star to NFL MVP

After leaving LSU, Jones entered the NFL as the second overall pick of the Baltimore Colts in the 1973 draft. He enjoyed a ten‑year career, spending nine seasons with Baltimore and one with the Los Angeles Rams, amassing 17,776 passing yards and 122 touchdowns. The pinnacle of his professional career came in 1976 when he captured the NFL MVP award after guiding the Colts to an 11‑3 record. His time in the league added another layer to his reputation as one of the top quarterbacks of his era.

What This Means for LSU Fans

For LSU fans, the retirement of Jones’ number is more than a tribute to a great player; it is a reminder of an era of excellence that still influences the program. The decision to honor Jones so soon, before the season’s end, signals the university’s commitment to preserving its heritage. Fans can expect the #7 jersey to be displayed prominently in Tiger Stadium, a visual cue that inspires future generations of Tigers. The honor also ties directly to the university’s broader effort to celebrate alumni who have made lasting impacts both on and off the field.