Jefferson gives up No. 21 after Webb re-signs with Ravens

The return of a longtime leader in the secondary isn't lost on the Baltimore Ravens' top offseason addition.

After initially grabbing No. 21 upon landing a four-year, $34-million contract with the Ravens, Tony Jefferson shared the news Monday that he's made the switch to No. 23.

It comes just days after the move to re-sign veteran defensive back Lardarius Webb, who's long worn No. 21 in Baltimore, to a three-year deal.

Webb started 16 games alongside Eric Weddle upon transitioning from cornerback to safety last season, but the addition of Jefferson almost certainly relegates him to some sort of sub-package role.

The gesture of a respect can be taken as a nod to Webb's history with the team, as the former third-round pick has spent his entire eight-year career in a Ravens uniform.

With Jefferson and Weddle patrolling the back end, free-agent signee Brandon Carr joining Jimmy Smith at corner, and Webb providing veteran depth at both spots, the Ravens defense could be difficult to attack through the air in 2017.