"Although the number isn't retired, fans are still having a strong reaction to Doubs choosing it, as if it were somehow ruled off-limits, and that could become problematic for him, as it has in the past for other players."
"Because the dynasty years were so beloved, especially in hindsight, there is a general feeling that several jersey numbers should have been retired or, at the very least, excluded from being used unofficially. That's the sentiment behind No. 87, so Doubs might be walking into a firestorm by choosing it."
"It's something previous players on the team have dealt with, most recently tight end Mitchell Wilcox, who received so much negativity online for being given the number that he had to make a post about the nonsense on his social media."
Romeo Doubs signed a four-year contract with the New England Patriots as a wide receiver upgrade, but his choice to wear No. 87 has generated significant negative reactions from fans. Although the number is not officially retired, many Patriots supporters associate it strongly with Rob Gronkowski, who wore it for nine seasons during the team's dynasty years. The backlash reflects a broader sentiment that certain jersey numbers should be unofficially excluded from use. Previous Patriots players, including tight end Mitchell Wilcox, have faced similar online harassment for wearing numbers connected to legendary players, forcing them to address the negativity on social media.
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