Football History

The Gridiron is a game of numbers. The numerals that the game of football provides tell their own story. Whether it be yardage, consecutive counts, or just the plain old digits on the player's uniform, the numerals mean something to our game's history. Join us we go through the game one digit at a time.

Jersey numbers transcend mere identification. They transform into a silent language, a bridge connecting players and fans. While the rulebook assigns number ranges to specific positions, the stories behind these digits weave a unique narrative, fostering a deeper connection between the athletes and their passionate supporters.

For fans, jersey numbers become a symbol of admiration. A young wide receiver, inspired by the acrobatic catches of a star player wearing number 81, might dream of replicating those feats while sporting the same number in their local league. Numbers become synonymous with greatness, a constant reminder of the awe-inspiring plays etched in memory. Seeing a familiar number on the field can spark immediate recognition, a surge of anticipation for the player's signature move, or the defensive dominance they represent.

Jersey numbers also foster a sense of belonging. Fans identify with players who wear numbers traditionally associated with their favorite position.

Uniform digits in American Football are more than just digits on a uniform. They are a language of admiration, a symbol of belonging, and a platform for individual stories to unfold. They connect players to fans, fostering a shared passion and a deeper appreciation for the game's rich history and its ever-evolving future. As fans cheer on their favorite players, they celebrate not just their talent, but also the stories woven into the fabric of their jersey numbers.

Few honors are as coveted in professional sports as having one's jersey number retired. It's a testament to a player's extraordinary impact on the game, a symbol of their enduring legacy, and a mark of respect from the franchise they represented. This series will delve into the rich history of retired jerseys in football.

From the gridiron's earliest days to the modern era of superstar athletes, we will explore the stories behind the numbers that have been permanently shelved. We'll examine the criteria that teams use to determine which jerseys are worthy of retirement, the significance of specific numbers in football culture, and the impact these retired jerseys have on fans and the sport.

Join us as we pay tribute to the legendary players whose contributions to the game have earned them this ultimate honor. We'll uncover the fascinating tales of how these jerseys came to be retired, the controversies that sometimes surround these decisions, and the enduring legacies of the athletes they represent.

As of the start of the 2024 season there are 163 people that have a number set aside in their honor on 26 of the 32 teams.

-The Legends By the Retired Numbers

Here is a look at the people for each number retired in the NFL:

-Jersey Number 1
Ray Flaherty 1928–1935 - Giants
Warren Moon 1984–1993 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 3
Tony Canadeo 1941–1952 - Green Bay
Jan Stenerud 1967–1979 - Chiefs
Bronko Nagurski 1930–1937, 1943 - Bears

-Jersey Number 4
Brett Favre 1992–2007 - Green Bay
Tuffy Leemans 1936–1943 - Giants

-Jersey Number 5
George McAfee 1940–1941, 1945–1950 - Bears
Donovan McNabb 1999–2009 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 7
John Elway - Denver
Dutch Clark - Detroit
George Halas 1920- 1928 - Bears
Bob Waterfield 1945–1952 - Rams
Mel Hein 1931–1945 - Giants

-Jersey Number 8
Larry Wilson - Cardinals
Steve Young 1987–1999 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 9
Steve McNair 1995–2005 Oiler/Titans
Sonny Jurgensen 1964–1974 - Washington

-Jersey Number 10
Fran Tarkenton 1961–1966, 1972–1978 - Vikings
Eli Manning 2004–2019 - Giants

-Jersey Number 11
Phil Simms 1979–1993 - Giants

-Jersey Number 12
Jim Kelly - Buffalo
Bob Griese 1967–1980 - Dolphins
Tom Brady 2000-2019 - Patriots
Joe Namath 1965–1976 - Jets
John Brodie 1957–1973 -49ers
FAN (12s) The fans or 12th man of the Seahawks

-Jersey Number 13
Dan Marino 1983–1999 - Dolphins
Don Maynard 1963–1972 - Jets

-Jersey Number 14
Don Hutson 1935–1945 Green Bay
Otto Graham - Cleveland
Dan Fouts 1973–1987 - Chargers
Ward Cuff 1937–1945 - Giants
Y. A. Tittle 1961–1964 - Giants

-Jersey Number 15
Bart Starr 1956–1971 - Green Bay
Steve Van Buren 1944–1951 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 16
Len Dawson 1962–1975 - Chiefs
Frank Gifford 1952–1964 - Giants
Joe Montana 1979–1992 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 18
Frank Tripuka - Denver
Peyton Manning 1998–2011 Colts
Emmitt Thomas 1966–1978 - Chiefs
Charlie Joiner 1976–1986 - Chargers

-Jersey Number 19
Johnny Unitas 1956–1972 - Colts
Lance Alworth 1962–1970 - Chargers

-Jersey Number 20
Lem Barney - Detroit
Barry Sanders - Detroit
Billy Simms - Detroit
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970 - Patriots
Brian Dawkins 1996–2008 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 21
LaDainian Tomlinson 2001–2009 -Chargers
Sean Taylor 2004–2007 - Washington

-Jersey Number 22
Buddy Young 1953–1955 - Colts
Bobby Layne - Detroit

-Jersey Number 24
Lenny Moore 1956–1967 - Colts

-Jersey Number 27
Eddie George 1996–2003 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 28
Willie Galimore 1957 -1963 - Bears
Abner Haynes 1960–1964 - Chiefs
Marshall Faulk 1999–2006 - Rams
Curtis Martin 1998–2005 - Jets
Darrell Green 1983–2002 - Washington

-Jersey Number 29
Eric Dickerson 1983–1987 - Rams

-Jersey Number 32
Jim Brown - Cleveland
Al Blozis 1942–1944 - Giants
Franco Harris 1972–1983 - Pittsburgh

-Jersey Number 33
Stone Johnson 1963 - Chiefs
Sammy Baugh 1937–1952 - Washington

-Jersey Number 34
Walter Payton 1975–1987 - Bears
Thurmon Thomas - Buffalo
Joe Perry 1948–1960 - 49ers
Earl Campbell 1978–1984 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 36
Mack Lee Hill 1964–1965 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 37
Doak Walker - Detroit
Jimmy Johnson 1961–1976 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 39
Larry Csonka 1968–1974 - Dolphins
Hugh McElhenny 1952–1960 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 40
Pat Tillman - Cardinals
Gale Sayers 1965–1971 - Bears
Mike Haynes 1976–1982 - Patriots
Joe Morrison 1959–1972 - Giants
Tom Brookshier 1953–1961 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 41
Brian Piccolo 1965–1969 - Bears

-Jersey Number 42
Sid Luckman 1939–1950 - Bears
Charlie Conerly 1948–1961 - Giants
Ronnie Lott 1981–1990 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 43
Jim Norton 1960–1968 Oiler/Titans

-Jersey Number 44
Floyd Little - Denver
Pete Retzlaff 1956–1966 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 45
Ernie Davis - Cleveland
Kenny Easley 1981–1987 - Seahawks

-JerseybNumber 46
Don Fleming - Cleveland

-Jersey Number 49
Bobby Mitchell 1962–1968

-Jersey Number 50
Ken Strong 1936–1947 - Giants

-Jersey Number 51
Dick Butkus 1965–1973 - Bears
Sam Mills - Panthers

-Jersey Number 53
Mick Tingelhoff 1962–1978 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 54
Bob Johnson - Bengals

-Jersey Number 55
Junior Seau 1990–2002 - Chargers
Derrick Brooks 1995–2008 - Bucanneers

-Jersey Number 56
Bill Hewitt 1932–1936 - Bears
Joe Schmidt - Detroit
Lawrence Taylor 1981–1993 - Giants

-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987

-Jersey Number 58
Derrick Thomas 1989–1999 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 60
Chuck Bednarik 1949–1962 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 61
Bill George 1952–1965 - Bears

-Jersey Number 63
Willie Lanier 1967–1977 - Chiefs
Lee Roy Selmon 1976–1984 - Bucanneers
Mike Munchak 1982–1993 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 65
Elvin Bethea 1968–1983 - Oiler/Titans

-Jersey Number 66
Bulldog Turner 1940–1952 - Bears
Ray Nitschke 1958–1972 - Green Bay

-Jersey Number 70
Art Donovan 1953–1961 - Colts
Jim Marshall 1961–1979 - Vikings
Al Wistert 1944–1951 - Eagles
Ernie Stautner 1950–1963 - Pittsburgh
Charlie Krueger 1959–1973 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 71
Tony Boselli - Jacksonville
Walter Jones 1997–2009 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985 - Patriots
Joe Klecko 1977–1987 - Jets
Leo Nomellini 1950–1963 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 74
Merlin Olsen 1962–1976 - Rams

-Jersey Number 75
Deacon Jones 1961–1971 - Rams
Joe Greene 1969–1981 - Pittsburgh

-Jersey Number 76
Lou Groza - Cleveland

-Jersey Number 77
Stan Mauldin - Cardinals
Red Grange 1925–1934 - Bears
Jim Parker 1957–1967 - Colts
Korey Stringer 1995–2000 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 78
Bobby Bell 1963–1974 - Chiefs
Bruce Smith 1985-1999 - Buffalo
Jackie Slater 1976–1995 - Rams
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000 - Patriots

-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970 - Patriots
Bob St. Clair 1953–1963 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 80
Kellen Winslow 1979–1987 - Chargers
Isaac Bruce 1994–2007 - Rams
Cris Carter 1990–2001 - Vikings
Jerry Rice 1985–2000 - 49ers
Steve Largent 1976–1989 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 82
Raymond Berry 1955–1967 - Colts

-Jersey Number 85
Chris Hughes - Detroit
Jack Youngblood 1971–1984 - Rams

-Jersey Number 86
Buck Buchanan 1963–1975 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 87
Dwight Clark 1979–1987 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 88
J. V. Cain - Cardinals
Alan Page 1967–1978 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 89
Mike Ditka 1961-1966 - Bears
Gino Marchetti 1953–1966 - Colts
Bob Dee 1960–1967 - Patriots

-Jersey Number 90
Dennis Byrd 1989–1992 - Jets

-Jersey Number 92
Reggie White 1993–1998 - Green Bay and Eagles
Michael Strahan 1993–2007 - Giants

-Jersey Number 96
Cortez Kennedy 1990–2000 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 99
Marshall Goldberg - Cardinals
Jerome Brown 1987–1991 - Eagles
Warren Sapp 1995–2003 - Bucanneers

-Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common retired NFL number? The number 12 has 5 legendary QBs, and one fan base represents what the teams have retired the number 12.

The San Francisco 49ers, a franchise renowned for its storied history and remarkable success, have established a legacy defined by legendary players and unforgettable achievements. Central to this legacy are the retired jersey numbers that honor some of the greatest athletes to have ever donned the red and gold. Each retired number represents more than just a player; it embodies a pivotal chapter in the 49ers' rich history, reflecting the skill, leadership, and dedication that have driven the team’s success.

In this series of posts, we will explore the significance of each retired jersey number for the San Francisco 49ers, celebrating the extraordinary individuals who have made an indelible impact on the franchise. From the groundbreaking quarterbacks who led the team to Super Bowl victories to the fierce defenders who anchored the defense, these numbers commemorate the players whose contributions have shaped the 49ers' legacy.

We will delve into the careers and accomplishments of these iconic figures, providing a comprehensive look at their key moments and how they influenced the team and the NFL as a whole. By highlighting their achievements and contributions, this series aims to offer a deeper appreciation for the players who have left an enduring mark on the 49ers' history.

Join us as we honor the heroes of San Francisco 49ers' past through the numbers that have become symbols of greatness. Each post will shed light on the storied careers and lasting impact of the players whose jerseys have been retired, celebrating their role in shaping one of the NFL’s most successful and storied franchises.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 8
Steve Young 1987–1999

-Jersey Number 12
John Brodie 1957–1973

-Jersey Number 16
Joe Montana 1979–1992

-Jersey Number 34
Joe Perry 1948–1960

-Jersey Number 37
Jimmy Johnson 1961–1976

-Jersey Number 39
Hugh McElhenny 1952–1960

-Jersey Number 42
Ronnie Lott 1981–1990

-Jersey Number 70
Charlie Krueger 1959–1973

-Jersey Number 73
Leo Nomellini 1950–1963

-Jersey Number 79
Bob St. Clair 1953–1963

-Jersey Number 80
Jerry Rice 1985–2000

-Jersey Number 87
Dwight Clark 1979–1987

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

The New York Giants, one of the NFL's most storied franchises, boast a rich history filled with remarkable players and unforgettable moments. Central to this legacy are the retired jersey numbers that honor the exceptional contributions of some of the greatest athletes to ever wear a Giants uniform. Each of these numbers represents not just a player, but a chapter in the team's history, reflecting the skill, dedication, and leadership that have defined the Giants' success over the decades.

In this series of posts, we will delve into the significance of each retired number, exploring the careers and achievements of the legendary players they represent. From the stalwart linemen who anchored the Giants’ defenses to the dynamic quarterbacks and fearless wide receivers who electrified the crowd, each jersey number retired by the franchise tells a story of excellence and heroism.

We will examine the key moments and contributions of these iconic figures, shedding light on how their performances helped shape the Giants' identity and their storied tradition of winning. Additionally, we'll provide insight into the impact these players had on the game itself, influencing not only their team but also the NFL at large.

Join us as we celebrate the heroes of Giants' history through the numbers that have become symbols of greatness. This series will offer a deeper appreciation for the individuals who have elevated the franchise and left an indelible mark on the sport of football.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 1
Ray Flaherty 1928–1935

-Jersey Number 4
Tuffy Leemans 1936–1943

-Jersey Number 7
Mel Hein 1931–1945

-Jersey Number 10
Eli Manning 2004–2019

-Jersey Number 11
Phil Simms 1979–1993

-Jersey Number 14
Ward Cuff 1937–1945
Y. A. Tittle 1961–1964

-Jersey Number 16
Frank Gifford 1952–1964

-Jersey Number 32
Al Blozis 1942–1944

-Jersey Number 40
Joe Morrison 1959–1972

-Jersey Number 42
Charlie Conerly 1948–1961

-Jersey Number 50
Ken Strong 1936–1947

-Jersey Number 56
Lawrence Taylor 1981–1993

-Jersey Number 92
Michael Strahan 1993–2007

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, a franchise synonymous with excellence and tradition, have a storied history marked by legendary players and iconic moments. At the heart of this legacy are the retired jersey numbers that honor some of the greatest athletes to ever step onto the gridiron. Each retired number symbolizes more than just a player; it represents the enduring impact, leadership, and prowess that have defined the Steelers' remarkable success over the years.

In this series of posts, we will delve into the stories behind each retired jersey number of the Pittsburgh Steelers, celebrating the extraordinary individuals who wore them. From the fearsome defenders who redefined the art of tackling to the dynamic playmakers who dazzled fans with their skill, these numbers commemorate the contributions of players whose excellence elevated the franchise to new heights.

We will explore the significant achievements and memorable moments associated with each retired number, offering insights into how these legends shaped not only the Steelers' legacy but also the broader landscape of the NFL. Through detailed profiles and historical context, this series will provide a comprehensive look at the careers of these iconic figures, highlighting their impact both on and off the field.

Join us as we pay tribute to the heroes of the Pittsburgh Steelers' past, celebrating the individuals who have left an indelible mark on the team and the sport of football. Each post will bring to life the storied careers and enduring contributions of the players whose jersey numbers have been immortalized in Steelers history.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 32
Franco Harris 1972–1983

-Jersey Number 70
Ernie Stautner 1950–1963

-Jersey Number 75
Joe Greene 1969–1981

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

In the annals of NFL history, few franchises boast a roster of iconic players as storied as the New York Jets. From the AFL's inaugural season to the Super Bowl era, the Jets have produced a lineage of gridiron greats whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the team and its fans.

To honor these legendary athletes, the Jets have retired certain jersey numbers, ensuring that no other player will ever don those digits. These numbers serve as a perpetual tribute to the men who wore them, symbolizing their extraordinary impact on the franchise.

In this series, we'll delve into the careers of the Jets' retired numbers, exploring their on-field accomplishments, their significance to the team, and the lasting legacy they've built. From the AFL's early days to the modern era, we'll uncover the stories behind the numbers and the players who made them legendary.

Get ready to relive some of the most thrilling moments in Jets history as we pay homage to the men who defined the green and white.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 12
Joe Namath 1965–1976

-Jersey Number 13
Don Maynard 1963–1972

-Jersey Number 28
Curtis Martin 1998–2005

-Jersey Number 73
Joe Klecko 1977–1987

-Jersey Number 90
Dennis Byrd 1989–1992

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

Welcome to our series dedicated to exploring the storied career of one of the NFL’s most iconic players to ever don the jersey number 13. This series will shine a spotlight on a figure whose impact on the game has transcended generations and whose legacy continues to resonate with fans and players alike.

The player in question is none other than the legendary Quarterback, Dan Marino and Kurt Warner. Also wide Reciever Don Maynard who was known for his exceptional catching ability, precise route-running, and unwavering work ethic, Maynard's career has cemented him as a true icon in the annals of football history. Over his illustrious career, he amassed receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, showcasing an impressive blend of skill and consistency that set him apart from his peers.

Marino’s influence extends beyond his statistics. His dramatic tosses, crucial touchdowns, and leadership on the field have left an indelible mark on the NFL. His remarkable ability to make pivotal plays in clutch moments earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where his impact on the game is forever enshrined.

Through this series, we will delve into these and more famous 13s and their remarkable journey from the early days in football to their rise as dominant players, highlighting key moments and contributions that define their legacies. Join us as we revisit the careers of some of the greatest to wear number 13 and celebrate their extraordinary contributions to the game of football.

Welcome to our special series celebrating the most iconic NFL players who wore the number 12 jersey. This number, often associated with exceptional talent and leadership, has been donned by some of the most legendary figures in football history. As we delve into this series, we'll spotlight the remarkable careers of these players, each of whom has left a significant mark on the game.

The number 12 has been worn by quarterbacks, wide receivers, and other key positions, symbolizing a blend of skill, charisma, and competitive spirit. From the strategic brilliance of quarterbacks who orchestrated game-winning drives to the dynamic performances of receivers who made crucial catches, the players who have worn this number have consistently showcased excellence on the field.

In this series, we will explore the achievements of these celebrated athletes, including their career highlights, memorable moments, and contributions to their teams' successes. Among those we will feature are NFL legends whose names have become synonymous with greatness—players whose leadership and prowess have set them apart in the annals of football history.

Join us as we honor these football icons, reflecting on their impact on the sport and their enduring legacies. Each post will delve into the storied careers of these number 12 heroes, celebrating their remarkable accomplishments and the lasting impressions they have made on the game of football.

The Philadelphia Eagles have a rich history filled with legendary players who left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a symbol of their enduring impact, the team has retired certain jersey numbers, a prestigious honor bestowed upon only the most exceptional athletes. In this post, we'll delve into the Eagles' retired numbers, exploring the players behind them and the ways the team continues to honor their legacies. From iconic figures to modern-day heroes, these numbers represent the heart and soul of the Eagles organization.

Here are the Jersey Numbers the team has taken out of circulation to honor their legends:

-Jersey Number 5
Donovan McNabb 1999–2009

-Jersey Number 15
Steve Van Buren 1944–1951

-Jersey Number 20
Brian Dawkins 1996–2008

-Jersey Number 40
Tom Brookshier 1953–1961

-Jersey Number 44
Pete Retzlaff 1956–1966

-Jersey Number 60
Chuck Bednarik 1949–1962

-Jersey Number 70
Al Wistert 1944–1951

-Jersey Number 92
Reggie White 1985–1992

-Jersey Number 99
Jerome Brown 1987–1991

The number 5 on an NFL jersey isn't just a number; it's a badge of honor. Throughout history, it's been donned by some of the most electrifying players the game has ever seen. From elusive running backs weaving through defenses to lockdown cornerbacks shutting down opposing offenses, the number 5 carries a weight of expectation and a legacy of excellence.

In this series, we'll embark on a journey to celebrate the iconic figures who have dominated the gridiron while sporting the number 5. We'll delve into the careers of these legendary players, exploring their unique skill sets, unforgettable moments, and the impact they left on the game.

This series isn't just about the household names. We'll uncover hidden gems, players who may not have reached superstardom but who wore the number 5 with pride and left their mark on the game.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this series has something for everyone. Join us as we celebrate the grit, talent, and passion of the NFL's "Number 5s." Prepare to be amazed by their athletic feats, relive their iconic moments, and gain a deeper appreciation for the NFL's rich history, one legendary jersey number at a time.