Some NFL jersey numbers are iconic, tied forever to the players who wore them and changed the game. Think of #12 and Tom Brady, or #80 and Jerry Rice. But what about the NFL jersey 3? It’s a jersey that has been worn by a unique group of players, from legendary kickers to Hall of Fame quarterbacks, all leaving their own mark on the history of professional football. 🏈 This article dives into the legacy of one of the greatest ever to wear the #3 jersey. Was it a groundbreaking passer from the league’s earliest days? Or a modern Super Bowl-winning quarterback who defined a franchise? We’ll explore the candidates and crown the ultimate all-time king of the number 3 jersey.
Here is a list of legends who donned the Jersey 3 in NFL games:
- Bronko Nagurski: A powerful Hall of Famer who wore No. 16 for the Chicago Bears, he was a massive two-way star who dominated as both a fullback and a defensive tackle in the sport’s early era.
- Russell Wilson – Wilson wore the 3 jersey for the Seahawks (2012-21), Broncos (2022-23), Steelers (2024), and Giants (2025)
- Daryle Lamonica – wore the 3 jersey for the Raiders (1967-74)
- Matt Stover – who donned the celebrated NFL uniform number 3, played for the Browns (1991-95), Ravens (1996-2008), & Colts (2009)
- Carson Palmer – wore the number 3 jersey for the Raiders (2011-12) & Cardinals (2013-17)
- Jan Stenerud
- Eddie Murray
- John Carney
- Jameis Winston
Mark Moseley
Stephen Gostkowski
Matt Bryant
Bobby Hebert
Josh Brown
Rohn Stark
Jon Kitna
Al Del Greco
Pete Gogolak
Rick Mirer
Kris Brown
Mark Royals
Jeff George
Joey Harrington
Rich Karlis
Jim Breech
Jeff Reed
Derek Anderson
John Leypoldt
Wil Lutz
Conclusion
From the rough-and-tumble era of Bronko Nagurski to the modern brilliance of Russell Wilson, the NFL Jersey 3 has been represented by a truly diverse and historic group of athletes. It’s a number that defies a single position, worn by Hall of Fame pioneers, Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks, and legendary kickers. Each player who donned the number 3 left an indelible mark, reminding us that greatness isn’t confined to a specific role.
Whose legacy in the NFL Jersey 3 do you believe shines the brightest? Let us know in the comments which player you think is one of the best players in history that wore it, and share your favorite memory of them!
The list of NFL players at each jersey number is a fascinating topic. Perhaps you may want to know who wore the number 1 jersey.

