Why are there number restrictions in the NFL?

Sep 13•The Ringer NFL Show. Historically, the overarching logic behind football numbering is that the smallest numbers go to the physically smallest players. Kickers, punters, and quarterbacks have long been assigned nos. 1 through 19, while beefy defensive linemen get 90 through 99.

Are football numbers assigned by position?

All players must wear numerals on their jerseys in accordance with Rule 5, Section 3, Article 3c (see NOTE 1), and such numerals must be by playing position as follows: quarterbacks, punters, and placekickers, 1-19 (and 10-19 for wide receivers if 80-89 are all otherwise assigned); running backs and defensive backs, 20 …

Can NFL players wear any number they want?

NFL players are now allowed to wear (almost) any number they want. Starting this season, running backs, tight ends and receivers can wear any number from 1 to 49, in addition to numbers in the 80s. Defensive backs can wear 1-49, while linebackers can wear numbers 1-59 and 90-99.

Why do football positions have certain numbers?

Uniform numbers in American football are unusual compared to those in other sports. More importantly, certain numbers may only be worn by players playing specific positions; thus, the jersey numbers assist the officials in determining possible rules infractions by players.

Why can’t NFL players wear single digit numbers?

The reasoning was that teams were running low on numbers to give players at certain positions, particularly following the NFL’s expansion of teams’ practice squads from 10 to 16 players last season to allow for increased flexibility during the coronavirus pandemic.

Can NFL running backs wear single digit numbers?

Previously only quarterbacks, kickers and punters were allowed to wear single-digit jerseys. Now running backs, fullbacks, H-backs, wide receivers and tight ends can wear Nos.

Why did some NFL players change their numbers?

Players across the league, like Queen, quickly took advantage of the opportunity. Though, in order to do so, each one (unless they changed teams over the offseason) had to buy out the remaining inventory of unsold jerseys with their former number, which could be a hefty price in some cases.

Can you wear zero in the NFL?

players, including Carmelo Anthony (0) and Damian Lillard (00). Those numbers have been banned from the N.F.L. since the 1973 reforms, although the Hall of Fame center Jim Otto wore 00 in the ’60s and ’70s. Also missing from the league are fractions, like the ⅛ worn by the 3-foot-7 Eddie Gaedel of the St.