A milestone for LSU football
The Tigers will pause their season on November 14 to celebrate the legacy of Bert Jones, a quarterback whose name has become synonymous with LSU excellence. The ceremony will retire his No. 7 jersey, a distinction that joins a select group of former players honored by the university.
Jones starred for the Tigers from 1970 to 1972, guiding the team to a 27‑8‑1 record and earning All‑American honors in 1972. His collegiate résumé includes a 1,446‑yard, 14‑touchdown passing season that helped shape some of the most memorable moments in LSU history.
After college, Jones was selected second overall by the Baltimore Colts in the 1973 NFL Draft. Over ten professional seasons he amassed 18,190 passing yards and 124 touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable starter for the franchise.
Beyond the field, Jones graduated with a degree in business administration and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016, a testament to his impact on the sport and his alma mater.
The No. 7 jersey has also been worn by several other distinguished alumni, including Ali Highsmith, Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu and Leonard Fournette. Each of these players has contributed to LSU’s rich tapestry of talent, and their association with the number underscores its enduring prestige.
LSU’s tradition of honoring its greats extends beyond Jones. The university has already retired the jerseys of Billy Cannon, Tommy Casonova, Jerry Stovall and Charles Alexander, each representing a different era of excellence. The upcoming ceremony will add another chapter to this legacy, reinforcing the program’s commitment to recognizing its most influential figures.