The Fresh England Patriots have a new wide receiver in town, and with him comes a familiar number. Romeo Doubs, recently signed by the team, will be donning the iconic number 87, previously worn by Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski. The move has sparked discussion among fans, with some questioning whether Doubs is attempting to emulate the tight end’s success, while others see it as a simple jersey number selection.
Doubs signed with the Patriots on March 11, 2026, as a free agent after previously playing for the Green Bay Packers. Patriots Wire reported the jersey number assignment on March 14, 2026. The number 87 holds significant weight in New England, largely due to Gronkowski’s stellar career with the team. He was a key component of the Patriots’ dynasty, contributing to three Super Bowl victories and establishing himself as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
The Legacy of Number 87 in New England
Rob Gronkowski’s impact on the Patriots and the NFL is undeniable. Drafted by New England in 2010, Gronkowski quickly became a favorite target of quarterback Tom Brady. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Pro-Football-Reference details his impressive career statistics, including 9,281 receiving yards and 92 touchdowns in 145 games. Beyond the statistics, Gronkowski was known for his infectious personality and his ability to perform in crucial moments.
The number 87 became synonymous with Gronkowski’s dominance. Fans often sported the jersey, and the number itself became a symbol of Patriots success. His retirement in 2019, and subsequent brief un-retirement in 2020, only added to the legend. The decision to allow a new player to wear the number is therefore a notable one, and naturally invites comparison.
Romeo Doubs: A New Chapter for the Iconic Number
Romeo Doubs is entering his fourth NFL season, hoping to establish himself as a reliable target in the Patriots’ offense. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft. While he showed flashes of potential in Green Bay, he never fully cemented himself as a consistent starter. He has 56 receptions for 679 yards and 4 touchdowns in his career, according to NFL.com.
The Patriots are undergoing a period of transition following the retirement of Tom Brady. They are looking to rebuild their offense and identify key players who can contribute to their future success. Doubs will be competing with other wide receivers for playing time and a role in the Patriots’ offensive scheme. The pressure of wearing Gronkowski’s former number could be a motivating factor for Doubs, or it could add unnecessary scrutiny to his performance.
Fan Reaction and the Potential for Backfire
The announcement of Doubs wearing number 87 has generated a significant reaction from Patriots fans online. Some fans have expressed excitement, hoping that Doubs can live up to the legacy of the number. Others have been more critical, suggesting that it is disrespectful to Gronkowski or that Doubs is setting himself up for failure. Musket Fire highlighted concerns that the move could backfire if Doubs doesn’t perform at a high level, leading to unfavorable comparisons with Gronkowski.
The weight of expectation associated with the number 87 is considerable. Gronkowski set a high bar for performance and impact, and Doubs will inevitably be judged against that standard. Whether he can handle the pressure and succeed remains to be seen. It’s important to remember that Doubs is a different player than Gronkowski, with a different skillset and a different role in the offense. Direct comparisons may be unfair and unproductive.
The Significance of Jersey Numbers in the NFL
Jersey numbers in the NFL are not simply identifiers; they often carry cultural and historical significance. Certain numbers have become associated with legendary players, and wearing those numbers can be a source of pride or pressure. The NFL has specific rules regarding which positions can wear which numbers, ensuring a degree of order and clarity. Wide receivers are typically assigned numbers between 1 and 49, and 80 and 89. Doubs’ selection of 87 is permissible under these rules.
The decision to wear a number previously worn by a beloved player is often a personal one. Some players choose to honor their idols by wearing the same number, while others simply prefer the aesthetic or the symbolism. In Doubs’ case, it is unclear what motivated his choice, but it has undoubtedly sparked a conversation among Patriots fans.
What’s Next for Romeo Doubs and the Patriots?
The Patriots will begin their offseason training program in April, giving Doubs an opportunity to learn the team’s offensive system and build rapport with his new teammates. The team will also be evaluating other free agent signings and draft prospects, further shaping the composition of their roster. The competition for playing time at wide receiver will be fierce, and Doubs will require to demonstrate his skills and versatility to earn a significant role.
The Patriots’ success in the 2026 season will depend on a number of factors, including the performance of their quarterback, the development of their young players, and the effectiveness of their coaching staff. Doubs’ contribution, however small or large, will be a part of that equation. The coming months will be crucial for him as he attempts to establish himself as a valuable asset to the Patriots.
The Patriots announced their full list of jersey numbers for free agency signings on March 14, 2026. Pats Pulpit provided a comprehensive overview of the assignments.
Fans can expect further updates on the Patriots’ offseason activities through the team’s official website and social media channels. The team’s next major event will be the NFL Draft, scheduled for April 25-27, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan.
What do you think about Romeo Doubs wearing number 87? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Patriots fans!
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