Patriots Fans Outraged as Romeo Doubs Keeps Iconic #87 Jersey

Some fans demand Doubs change the number previously worn by Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:41pm

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The New England Patriots have signed wide receiver Romeo Doubs in free agency, and he will be wearing the iconic #87 jersey previously worn by Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski. This decision has sparked outrage among some Patriots fans, who believe the number should be retired by the team.

Why it matters

Gronkowski was a dominant force for the Patriots during his career, winning multiple Super Bowls and establishing himself as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. For many fans, the #87 jersey is closely associated with Gronkowski's legacy, and they feel it should be retired by the team to honor his contributions.

The details

Doubs wore #87 during his time with the Green Bay Packers and has chosen to continue wearing the same number with the Patriots. Some fans have taken to social media to express their displeasure, with one user writing "He better change that number" and another asking "why isn't this number retired by now?" The Patriots have not yet indicated whether they plan to retire Gronkowski's number, and Doubs has not commented on the fan reaction to his jersey choice.

  • Doubs signed with the Patriots in free agency this week.

The players

Romeo Doubs

A wide receiver who signed with the New England Patriots in free agency after playing for the Green Bay Packers last season.

Rob Gronkowski

A former tight end for the New England Patriots who is considered one of the greatest players in franchise history, winning multiple Super Bowls and establishing himself as a dominant force at his position.

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What’s next

The Patriots have not indicated whether they plan to retire Gronkowski's #87 jersey, so it remains to be seen if Doubs will be allowed to continue wearing the number or if he will be asked to choose a different one.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the strong emotional connection many Patriots fans have to the team's history and legendary players like Rob Gronkowski. While Doubs may have personal reasons for wanting to wear #87, the team will need to carefully navigate this issue to avoid further backlash from the passionate fan base.