Bush To Wear #25
Running backs to give 25 percent of jersey sale profits to Katrina victims
by neworleanssaints.com
Posted May 25, 2006

New Orleans Saints rookie RB Reggie Bush will wear jersey No. 25 this season, a number that RB Fred McAfee has worn for eight of his nine seasons with the Saints, including each since 2000. As he initially promised, Bush will donate 25 percent of his jersey royalties to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, and half of those funds will be distributed by McAfee to the charity of his choice.

Bush had petitioned the NFL Competition Committee to change the league's numbering rules, which don't allow a running back to have a jersey number below 20. When that request was denied, Bush approached McAfee about No. 25.

"To have worn the No. 5 was my first preference, but the most important thing was to raise awareness and proceeds for the victims of the hurricane," said Bush. "I've visited areas that have been affected and seen what they have gone through. Despite initially being disappointed, to wear 25 will help keep everyone aware of their struggles. And I thank Fred for making it available."

McAfee is entering his 15th NFL season and is in his second stint with the Saints. He was initially drafted by the Saints in 1991, was assigned No. 25 and played in New Orleans until 1993. He returned to the Saints for the final 12 games of 2000 and wore No. 26. But McAfee has worn No. 25 since 2001 and has been one of the club's best special teams performers.

"With this deal, many more people can benefit from the sale of the jersey," said McAfee. "This allows me many more options to help more people. I'm from Mississippi, which was also hit hard by the hurricane. And I consider New Orleans my home. I look forward to donating my part of the proceeds to charities. And I think Reggie should be commended for making that commitment."

McAfee is slated to wear No. 32 this season.

See more at New Orleans Pro Football