Warren Sapp is not happy Ravens' Timmy Jernigan will wear No. 99 to honor him
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Oct 24, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; NFL former player Warren Sapp reacts on stage before a game between the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Warren Sapp was a game changer along Tampa Bay's defensive line during his playing days. He's a guy who's looked up to by young, up-and-coming defensive tackles, given his impact on the game of football. Timmy Jernigan of the Baltimore Ravens is one player who models his style after Sapp, and he was given a great opportunity to honor the Hall of Famer.
When Chris Canty was released by the Ravens in March, it left the No. 99 vacant -- Sapp's number. Unsurprisingly, Jernigan snatched it up, paying tribute to his idol. Only, Sapp wasn't pleased. He was actually unhappy about it.
So, why exactly is Sapp upset about a current player honoring him by wearing No. 99? That's not entirely clear, but it could have something to do with their alma maters. Jernigan went to Florida State, a rival of Sapp's Miami Hurricanes. Or maybe Sapp just doesn't believe Jernigan is qualified to wear his number.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"I always grew up watching Warren Sapp," Jernigan said via ESPN. "I looked up to him. I definitely wanted to model my game after him.
"Nasty, ferocious, he came every play," he continued. "You definitely knew he was there and when he made a play. Another thing, he played down in Florida, too, so he was definitely one of the greats from our state."
Regardless of his logic, Sapp is seemingly angry about Jernigan's switch.