USC asked Heisman winner to unretire jersey several times: 'Absolutely f-ing not'

Former USC quarterback Matt Leinart made it clear this week that his No. 11 jersey will remain retired at USC. And he has no intention of changing his mind.

While on the Throwbacks podcast, the conversation that touched on jersey traditions and NFL players switching numbers, Leinart said the idea of unretiring his iconic number has come up multiple times inside the USC program. Each time, he said, his answer has been the same: No. 

“At USC, if you win the Heisman Trophy your number is automatically retired,” Leinart said, referencing the program’s tradition honoring winners such as OJ Simpson, Carson Palmer, Reggie Bush and Caleb Williams.

Leinart’s No. 11 hangs inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum as part of that lineage. Despite the growing trend of schools allowing retired numbers to return for elite recruits, Leinart said he will not give his approval for any current player to wear it.Matt

“Absolutely f-ing not,” Leinart said when asked if he would consider unretiring the jersey for a five-star prospect. “I’m never going to unretire my jersey for some random dude who might wear it for a year and then transfer.”

More: Ryan Coogler wins Oscar for 'Sinners,' first former college football player in major category

The former national champion added that the only exception would be personal. If one of his own sons eventually plays quarterback at USC.

Leinart’s stance also reflects the uncertainty of the modern college football landscape, where transfers and NIL deals can fix up rosters quickly. He noted that even if a high-profile recruit wanted the number, the possibility of a short stay makes the idea even less appealing.

The quarterback,who led USC to two national titles and won the 2004 Heisman Trophy, said the jersey represents a lasting legacy tied to his college career. “It’s staying up there forever,” Leinart added.

More college football news: 

• Jordon Hudson turns heads with 'barely there' rope dress at Maine charity event
• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Steve Sarkisian blasts Ohio State players for not going to class
• UNC great stuns fans by announcing boycott of Bill Belichick's team
• Ohio State's Ryan Day faces backlash after NFL Combine