In 2021, the NFL made changes to its rules regarding jersey numbers, allowing defensive players to wear single-digit numbers.
Patrick Mahomes says the NFL's expanded jersey number rules make reading defenses harder for QBs because you can't always tell who's a linebacker and who's a defensive back. https://t.co/c3rIGsJklS
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) November 14, 2023
This alteration to the traditional numbering system has garnered mixed reactions from players across the league.
One notable player expressing dissatisfaction is Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. During a conversation with Peyton and Eli Manning on Monday night, Mahomes explained how the expanded jersey number rules have made it harder for quarterbacks to read defenses accurately.
“It’s even crazier now because everybody can wear the single digits,” Mahomes said. “We actually go in every week and we really emphasize the numbers because when you’ve got a number like No. 7 playing middle linebacker, that can really mess with your tells for the o-linemen. It looks cool, I’ll give everybody that, but it makes it a little difficult for the QB.”
Mahomes explained that in the early stages of his career, it was relatively easy to identify the personnel grouping on defense based on the numbers worn by linebackers and defensive backs.
However, with the new jersey numbering rule, this has become increasingly challenging.
“You get these guys who rotate in, and you’ll get a DB who’s in the 40s and a linebacker in single digits,” Mahomes said. “Having to really recognize that quickly.”
These concerns raised by Mahomes are not isolated. Another prominent quarterback, Tom Brady, also voiced his opinion about the new jersey numbering rule.
Brady emphasized that this change is a significant advantage for the defense, something that quarterbacks are not particularly fond of.
It seems that this alteration in the rules has been received favorably by defensive players who appreciate the newfound freedom to wear single-digit numbers.
