When trying to tackle the football team market, it’s crucial to know what you are talking about when it comes to numbering team uniforms. Here’s a rundown of the basics.
Football jerseys have distinctive number styles and placements. For example, in addition to large numbers on the front and back of the jersey, there also are numbers displayed on the shoulders or sleeves termed “TV numbers.” These smaller numbers allow viewers watching a game to identify a player’s number from far away. Numbers also can be found on players’ helmets.
Also unique to football is that certain numbers may be worn only by players playing particular positions. This rule is to assist officials in determining rule infractions by players.
Number sequences based on player positions include:
1-9 quarterback, kickers
10-19 quarterback, kickers, receivers, tight end
20-49 running back, defensive back
50-59 linebackers
60-79 offensive and defensive lineman
80-89 receivers, tight end
90-99 defensive lineman, linebackers
Number sizes for decorating football jerseys vary based on garment size. These are the typical size guidelines to reference:
•Adult- 3” name, 10” front number, 10” or 12” back number, 4” sleeve/shoulder number
•Youth - 2” name, 8” front number, 10” back number, 3” sleeve/shoulder number
File name: Stahls’ Football TV numbers.jpg
Football uniforms are distinct from other sports in the use of “TV numbers” that are placed on the shoulders or sleeves of the jersey to make it easier to see a player number from far away.
With 21 years of sports industry experience, Paul Sabatini is the marketing sports coordinator for Stahls’, St. Clair Shores, Mich. Sabatini is the go-to guy for all things sportswear and uniforms.
