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The No. 9 jersey for Alabama State football honors the nine formerly enslaved men who founded the university.

The player who wears No. 9 is selected by the coaching staff based on leadership, character, academics, and community service.

Gordon earned the honor through his mentorship while injured and his extensive community service work.

There are 20 shared jersey numbers and 69 standalone jersey numbers on Alabama State football’s roster in 2025. But there’s one number that’s coveted above all when playing for the Hornets.

The number isn’t given, it’s earned. It’s a number tied to the history of Alabama State and its foundation built on the perseverance of nine men.

Joey P. Pinch, Thomas Speed, Nicholas Dale, James Childs, Thomas Lee, John Freeman, Nathan Lever

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