The Numbers Game of the NFL

Jersey numbers have long been a part of the NFL, but in recent years, the league has allowed players to choose their own numbers. This has led to some interesting trends, especially among wide receivers.

Wide receivers have traditionally worn numbers in the 80s, but since the NFL began allowing players to choose their own numbers in 2004, many wide receivers have switched to lower numbers, such as 10, 11, and 17. This is likely because wide receivers want to project an image of speed and agility, and lower numbers are often associated with these qualities.

A recent study by UCLA psychology professor Ladan Shams supports this idea. Shams showed participants images of football players of various body types wearing different jersey numbers. The participants were then asked to rate the players' slenderness and speed. Shams found that participants consistently rated players wearing lower numbers as being thinner and faster.

This suggests that wide receivers may be choosing lower numbers in order to create a mental association between their jersey number and their speed. This association may then influence how coaches and opponents perceive them, which could give them a competitive advantage.

Of course, jersey number is not the only factor that determines a player's speed. But it is possible that choosing a lower number can help wide receivers to project an image of speed and agility, which can then lead to better performance on the field.

Here are some examples of NFL wide receivers who have switched to lower numbers in recent years:

Tyreek Hill (10)

Davante Adams (17)

Stefon Diggs (14)

A.J. Brown (11)

Justin Jefferson (18)

These are just a few examples, but it is clear that more and more wide receivers are choosing lower numbers. This trend is likely to continue, as players continue to look for ways to project an image of speed and agility.

The NFL's jersey number system is more than just a way to identify players. It is also a way for players to express themselves and create a unique identity. By choosing their own jersey numbers, players can send a message to their fans, their opponents, and the NFL itself.

Unlikely Buddha 2023