Marquez Valdes‑Scantling Takes Over Keenan Allen’s No. 13

The Chargers’ new signing, Marquez Valdes‑Scantling, has taken up the No. 13 jersey after Keenan Allen departed for Indianapolis. The number was the only available option for the rookie, as other slots were taken or retired. Valdes‑Scantling praised Allen’s legacy and expressed optimism about contr…

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 18 Sep 2026 09:28:22 GMT

In a surprising move that highlighted the challenges of roster numbers in the NFL, Marquez Valdes‑Scantling, the Chargers’ newest wide‑receiver, stepped onto the field wearing the iconic No. 13 jersey. The number had long been associated with Chargers legends like Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates and, most recently, Keenan Allen. With Allen’s departure to the Indianapolis Colts, the number was finally free, but the decision to assign it to Valdes‑Scantling was not a simple one.

Why No. 13 Was the Only Option

When the Chargers opened the 2026 season, the roster was already packed with players who had claimed the most coveted numbers. Numbers 0‑10 were occupied by established starters, while the 80‑89 range—traditionally reserved for receivers—had been largely taken or retired. According to Valdes‑Scantling, the only numbers still available were 13, 17 and 85. The team ultimately chose 13, a number that had been worn by some of the franchise’s most celebrated players.

Valdes‑Scantling explained that the decision was driven more by logistics than by personal preference. "There was just no availability," he said. "By Week 1, there are not many openings. I think every number was taken or retired." The Chargers’ roster constraints made 13 the most viable choice for a new wide‑receiver looking to make an immediate impact.

Honoring a Hall‑of‑Fame Legacy

Keinan Allen, drafted by the Chargers in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, amassed a career that many would consider Hall‑of‑Fame worthy. Over 12 seasons, he recorded 985 receptions for 11,307 yards and 63 touchdowns. His tenure with the Chargers cemented his status as one of the franchise’s all‑time greats, and the number 13 had become synonymous with his brand.

Valdes‑Scantling was quick to acknowledge Allen’s impact. "He is the best receiver that has ever come through this organization and everything that he has done, that number will be retired at some point," he told the California Post. The sentiment underscores the respect the new player has for the legacy he’s stepping into.

Valdes‑Scantling’s Arrival and Expectations

The Chargers signed Valdes‑Scantling after Ladd McConkey suffered a rib injury, creating a need for a seasoned veteran who could fill the void. While he’s not looking to replace Allen directly, Valdes‑Scantling expressed confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. "I’m an experienced player that can help provide some leadership to this room," he said.

His arrival comes at a time when the Chargers are looking to rebuild their receiving corps. With Allen now a Colts player wearing No. 10, the Chargers have a clear path to reallocate their numbers and focus on developing new talent. Valdes‑Scantling’s presence is expected to add depth and experience, potentially accelerating the team’s offensive growth.

What’s Next for the Chargers?

As the season progresses, the Chargers will monitor how Valdes‑Scantling adapts to his new number and role. The team’s coaching staff will likely integrate him into the passing game, leveraging his veteran insight while allowing him to establish his own identity on the field.

Meanwhile, fans will watch closely to see if Valdes‑Scantling can live up to the legacy associated with No. 13. The number’s history, coupled with the excitement surrounding a new signing, has generated buzz among the Chargers’ fan base and the broader NFL community.

In the coming weeks, the Chargers will continue to shape their roster, aiming to balance experience with emerging talent. The assignment of No. 13 to Valdes‑Scantling is just one piece of that larger puzzle, reflecting both practical roster considerations and a nod to the franchise’s storied past.

Key facts

Valdes‑Scantling adopted No. 13 after Allen left
Only 13, 17, and 85 were available
Allen’s Hall‑of‑Fame career set a high standard
Valdes‑Scantling praised Allen’s legacy
The signing filled a roster gap after McConkey’s injury

Why it matters

The assignment of a legendary jersey number signals a new chapter for the Chargers and highlights the logistical challenges teams face when managing player numbers. It also reflects the respect newer players have for franchise history.