How The System Of Uniform Numbering Works

To create distinction between each player and to make it easier for the coaches, the announcers, the referees and the fans to recognize who's playing on the field, football players make use of jersey numbers. The manner by which each uniform displays its particular number is probably the most unusual in any sports the numbers are very large and take up most of the body of the shirt. The player's number is printed on a number of locations including the back and front of his shirt, on the helmet, on both shoulders, Each team may consist of more than 50 players, some even have as much as 100 hundred players. Because of the large roster of players in any given football team, most leagues adopted a certain numbering system to prevent confusion as well as to provide a more definite system of choosing a number for a player. The choices of numbers for football players range from 1 to 99. However, each position is restricted to a range of number. The more popular and commonly used system of jersey numbering is the NFL uniform numbering system. In this type of system, each position or player can choose from a range of numbers specific for that position such that:Numbers 1 to 19 are reserved for Quarterbacks, Punters, Wide Receivers and Kickers. (Take note that only in 2004 did the NFL allow Wide Receivers to use numbers found in this range.)Numbers 20 to 49 can only be used by Cornerbacks, Running Backs, Safeties and Tight Ends. The latter can only use this number whenever numbers 80 to 89 are not availableNumbers 50 to 59 are restricted to Offensive Linemen and Linebackers.Numbers 60 to 79 can only be given to both the Defensive and Offensive Line. Thus, Centers, Guards, Tackles, Defensive Ends, Nose Guard and defensive Tackles are the only players who could wear these jersey numbers.Numbers 80 to 89 are available only to Tight Ends and Wide Receivers. These players can also use numbers 40 to 49 in case 80 to 89 are not available.Numbers 90 to 99 can be worn only by Defensive Linemen and Linebackers. Prior to 1973, the numbers 0 and 00 were used but for some reason these numbers were removed from the list of numbers that could be used. In summary, this NFL numbering system encourages or limits the players to certain numbers on the basis of their position in the team.
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