The Indianapolis Colts have made a bold move by trading for cornerback Sauce Gardner. As fans eagerly await his debut with the team, one question lingered in their minds – what jersey number will he wear? Well, thanks to wide receiver Josh Downs, Gardner will continue to wear his beloved No. 1 jersey, a number he has held since his college days at the University of Cincinnati.
Downs, who previously wore the No. 1 jersey for the Colts, made the selfless decision to switch to No. 2 to accommodate Gardner. This was a surprising move, as Downs had grown attached to the number and had even become synonymous with it during his time with the Colts. But in a recent interview, Downs revealed the real reason behind his jersey swap and it has left fans impressed.
In a clip shared by Kevin Bowen, a sports journalist for the Colts, Downs can be heard discussing the jersey swap with Gardner. He explains that he wanted to show his support for the new addition to the team and also make him feel welcome. This gesture speaks volumes about the camaraderie and team spirit within the Colts’ locker room.
Gardner, who was drafted by the Colts in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has already made a positive impact on his teammates. The 21-year-old cornerback has shown immense potential during his time at Cincinnati, where he was a two-time All-American and the American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2020.
The decision to give up his jersey number shows Downs’ selflessness and team-first mentality. This is a quality that is highly valued in the NFL and will surely earn him respect from his teammates and coaches. Downs’ willingness to make the switch for the betterment of the team is a testament to his character and dedication to the game.
But this swap wasn’t just a one-sided decision. In the same interview, Gardner reveals that he had made a deal with Downs to give up the No. 1 jersey. He promised to take care of Downs’ family and friends who had already purchased his No. 1 jersey. This just goes to show the mutual respect and understanding between the two players.
The No. 1 jersey holds a special significance for Gardner, as it was the number he wore during his time at Cincinnati. It was a part of his identity and he didn’t want to give it up. But thanks to Downs’ kind gesture, he can continue to wear it and make a mark in the NFL with the Colts.
This jersey swap has not only brought two players together, but it has also brought the Colts’ fan base together. Fans have been buzzing about the news on social media, with many praising Downs for his selfless act. This move has also created a positive buzz around the team, with fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming season.
In a league where players are often focused on their individual goals and achievements, Downs’ decision to give up his jersey number for the betterment of the team is truly commendable. It shows that he is not just a talented player, but also a great teammate and leader.
As the Colts gear up for the upcoming season, this jersey swap serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork and sacrifice in achieving success. It sets a positive tone for the team and shows that they are willing to do whatever it takes to win.
In conclusion, the jersey swap between Josh Downs and Sauce Gardner is a heartwarming example of sportsmanship and teamwork. It has brought the Colts’ players and fans closer together and has shown the true character of these two talented athletes. As they take the field wearing their new jersey numbers, they will continue to inspire and motivate their teammates and fans alike.