Football numbers. Wow, the numbers associated with each position in the NFL are vast! From quarterbacks to running backs, defensive linemen to linebackers, and even the special teams players, the numbers associated with each position are absolutely mind-boggling.
As a fan, it’s fun to try and pick out individual players and their corresponding numbers – to see just how unique or significant these numbers are. To me, there’s something special about watching a quarterback throw to a wide receiver or a running back make a big dash through the defensive line with the same number. It makes the game of football so much more enjoyable!
For starters, quarterbacks usually have a number in the 10-19 range. For example, some popular quarterbacks right now like Tom Brady, Lamar Jackson, and Cam Newton, all have numbers that start with the number one. Quarterbacks also often have one or two digits padded at the end of their numbers, which gives them more of a presence on the field.
Running backs usually wear numbers between 20-49. This position typically numbers range between 20-23, 28-34, 40-49. For instance, famous players like Christian McCaffrey, Ezekiel Elliott, and Le’Veon Bell all wear a number between 20-49. Popular numbers for running backs seem to be either 22, 25, 26, or 28.
The defensive line has numbers typically in the range of 50-79. The line is responsible for protecting the quarterback but can also make the offense pay for any mistakes they make. Examples of defensive linemen with high numbers include Aaron Donald, J.J. Watt, and DeMarcus Lawrence, all of whom wear numbers in the 50s or higher.
Moving on to the linebackers, this position wears numbers between 40-59 in the NFL. Linebackers are usually seen wearing numbers between 40-59. They must be flexible and able to help out in a tight spot, as their numbers are right in the middle of the defensive line and the secondary. Linebackers like Luke Kuechly, Bobby Wagner, and Von Miller all wear numbers between 40-59.
The Secondary has numbers between 20-49. Usually this position wears numbers between 20-29 or 40-49. These players must have great vision and be able to keep up with the receiver they are assigned to. Players like Richard Sherman, Marcus Peters, and Tyrann Mathieu all have numbers in the 20s or 40s.
Finally, the special teams has numbers usually between the 10s-50s. The special team members are mostly believed to wear the last three digits of their jersey number. Special teams members make up of some of the most underrated players in the game, and examples of such players include Cassius Marsh, Lou Young, and Thomas Davis, all wearing numbers from the 10s-50s.
It’s so interesting to see how different numbers representing each position in the NFL can bring out the significance behind them. NFL numbers can tell us a whole lot about each individual players’ role on the field, and that’s why I’m fascinated with the numbers associated with football.