The NFL owners have collectively approved a new set of rules that relax many of the restrictions on selecting shirt numbers. This decision has elicited a critical response from Tom Brady, the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who referred to it as a “foolish” move.
Previously, there were stricter limitations on the range of numbers that could be worn by certain positions. As per the new rules, linebackers are now allowed to wear any number from one to 59, defensive backs have the option of choosing between one to 49, and defensive linemen can select numbers from 50 to 79 and 90 to 99.
Rich McKay, the president of the Atlanta Falcons and the chairman of the NFL competition committee, defended the decision along with Troy Vincent, the current overseer of NFL football operations and a former cornerback for the Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles. They explained that due to factors like 16 practice players and potential need for them on game day, as well as retired numbers, it was necessary for the league to broaden the available options for players.
Nevertheless, Brady shared his thoughts on the change in an Instagram story posted on Thursday. He remarked, “Good luck trying to block the right people now! Going to make for a lot of bad football! Why not let the linemen wear whatever they want too? Why have numbers? Just have colored jerseys… why not wear the same number?… FOOLISH.”
