NFL Rules on Player Numbers

The National Football League has enforced rules on player numbers since the 1970s in an effort to help fans identify players. The NFL rules on player numbers cover not only which numbers are available for different players, but also the size of the numbers on the jersey and the procedure to request exceptions to rules.

  1. Numbers by Position

    • On any NFL football team, the players must all wear different numbers, and the players' numbers must come from the range of numbers available in the primary position they play. Some positions also have alternate sets of numbers in case none of the numbers in the primary set are available. Quarterbacks, punters and placekickers wear numbers 1 to 19; running backs and defensive backs wear 20 to 49; centers wear 50 to 59 (or 60 to 69 if there are none available in the 50s); offensive guards and tackles wear 60 to 79; wide receivers wear 10 to 19 and 80 to 89; tight ends wear 80 to 89; defensive linemen wear 60 to 79 (or 90 to 99 if none of those are available); and linebackers wear 50 to 59 (or 90 to 99 if none of those are available).

    Retired Numbers

    • Many football clubs within the NFL have retired specific jersey numbers in honor of famous players who wore that number while playing for the team. These numbers are not available for other players to wear. However, if there are not enough player numbers available, the team must bring numbers out of retirement to provide a proper number.

    Number Size

    • All players' football jerseys must have numbers on both the front and back of the jersey, and these numbers must be at least 8 inches tall and 4 inches wide. Jerseys also need to have smaller numbers on the upper arms or tops of the shoulders. Some teams have uniforms with numbers on the helmets or on the pants as well, but these are not required.

    Requesting Exceptions

    • If a player's primary position is an unusual one, such as an H-back or power back, he can make a request to the commissioner to receive a number. Other players can also make requests to the commissioner to wear numbers outside those available for their position, but these requests are unlikely to be granted.