Tom Brady

Tom Brady is not a fan of a new NFL rule

"Going to make for a lot of bad football."

Tom Brady NFL rule change
Tom Brady during the 2020 season. AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski

As the oldest quarterback in the NFL, it might not be a surprise that Tom Brady isn’t always a fan of league rule changes.

The NFL announced several rule and league policy changes on Wednesday, including one which would expand the allowed numbers that certain player positions can use for their jerseys.

Specifically, multiple positions can now use single-digit jersey numbers for the first time, including running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, defensive backs, and linebackers.

Brady, as he announced on his Instagram story on Thursday, is apparently not in favor of the switch.

“Good luck trying to block the right people now,” Brady wrote. “Going to make for a lot of bad football.”

Advertisement:

Brady’s point appears to be an issue that other coaches have reportedly raised on the topic. Specifically, the concern is that player positions with more general numbering could create confusion in blocking schemes, and might lead to more free rushers on quarterbacks.

Update, 2:07 p.m.: The former Patriot wasn’t done, adding a second page to his Instagram story about the rule change.

“Dumb,” Brady wrote over a screenshot of an article explaining the change. “Why not let the lineman wear whatever they want too? Why have numbers? Just have colored jerseys…why not wear the same number?…Dumb.”

Get Boston.com's browser alerts:

Enable breaking news notifications straight to your internet browser.

Conversation

This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com