Jameson Williams' first jersey number with the Lions -- 18 -- was a nod to Calvin Johnson's 81.
His new number, which is now official on the team's roster, harkens back to Johnson's quarterback: Matthew Stafford.
Williams is switching to No. 9, a team source confirmed Wednesday, as first reported by ESPN. The rookie wide receiver even shared a picture of his new jersey on Instagram.
Williams, who wore No. 1 at Alabama, reached out to Stafford before making the switch -- not to seek his approval, but as a show of respect. The former Lions quarterback wore No. 9 for the duration of his 12-year career in Detroit.
No. 9 was the only single-digit number available on the Lions roster. Nos. 1 through 8 are spoken for, with the exception of No. 7 which is retired for Hall of Famer Dutch Clark.
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