In my perfect football world, jersey numbers 0 and 00 would be issued alongside the traditional numerical sequence. This adjustment could add an exciting layer of uniqueness to the game and allow players to express themselves more freely. While some may argue that these numbers could lead to confusion on the field, I believe that with proper implementation and clear rules, this concern can be mitigated.

Another aspect of this vision is the concept of numbers being “un-retired” after a certain period, allowing them to re-enter circulation. In many sports, jersey retirements are a way to honor legendary players and their contributions to a team’s history. However, this practice can lead to a dwindling pool of available numbers over time, limiting the choices for future athletes.

By honoring retired numbers for a season or a specified duration, teams can continue to pay tribute to their legends while also providing new players with more options. This approach strikes a balance between honoring tradition and allowing for flexibility in jersey numbers.

From a marketing perspective, the idea of jersey number changes can be viewed through a different lens. Sports teams often market the jerseys of star players, and these jerseys become iconic symbols of the franchise. Changing a player’s number can indeed affect merchandise sales and fan engagement, as highlighted by the example: how many sales would be generated if Tua Tagovailoa could wear Dan Marino’s #13 (his Alabama number) in Miami?

The key to implementing these changes successfully lies in careful planning, communication, and gradual adaptation. Football is a dynamic sport, and its traditions can evolve over time to meet the changing preferences and needs of players, fans, and the business side of the game.

One thing teams may also want to keep in mind is the words of his college coach George O’Leary who went on record saying Bortles is no franchise QB prospect:

“I think a franchise quarterback comes out once every 10 years, and he came out last year in [Andrew] Luck,” O’Leary said, despite being off just one year. “The ones I see succeed are understudies.”

“Blake has all the things you’re looking for in a quarterback as far as size and mental capacity to handle a lot of things,” O’Leary said. “But that first year is tough because those guys are moving a lot faster than the college guys.

“Blake is going to be fine-tuned to what he needs to get done in the pro ranks.”

http://houston.cbslocal.com/2014/02/12/george-oleary-on-mad-radio-obrien-knows-how-to-attack/