Baker got his ‘6’

Photo illustration credit: Carolina Panthers

Full disclosure, I am a Carolina Panthers fan.

Three players have worn the number six jersey in the last four months.

For the last two years, quarterback P.J. Walker wore the number six for the Panthers.

During his time at Temple University, under now Panthers head coach Matt Rhule, Walker wore the number 11 for his first three years, and number eight for his senior year.

When punter Johnny Hekker signed with the team, March 18, he bought the jersey he wore with the Los Angeles Rams for the last 10 years, from Walker.

Hekker wore the number seven in college, but upon signing with the Rams, seven was retired. So, he chose six.

Then along came Baker Mayfield.

The Panthers traded for Mayfield, July 6. Shortly after arrival Hekker probably figured he was in a good spot. Not because he knew he could beat out Mayfield for the punter job, but because Mayfield’s number since his days at Texas Tech was six.

It isn’t uncommon for players to change numbers when they change teams. But some players just want to wear their number. When that’s the case, sometimes you gotta put your money where your mouth is.

Hekker tweeted out a gif of comedian Dave Chappelle wearing a crown and holding wads of cash, July 12.

While the details of how much Mayfield bought the jersey for are undisclosed, Mayfield’s rookie deal as the number one overall pick for the Cleveland Browns was worth $32.68 million guaranteed.

“Gas prices are crazy these days,” Hekker said in an interview with the Panthers. “So you gotta do what you can to keep the tank full.”

Hekker had to be seeing dollar signs. But Mayfield got his ‘6’.