Tom Brady

Tom Brady is not a fan of a new NFL rule

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

By Hayden Bird

April 22, 2021

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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.

Under the new rule, players will be able to wear …

Defensive backs: 1–49

Running backs, full backs, tight ends, H-backs, and wide receivers: 1–49 and 80-89

Offensive linemen: 50–79;

Defensive linemen: 50–79 and 90–99;

Linebackers: 1–59 and 90–99. https://t.co/EhTnOVX7RJ

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 21, 2021

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.”

GOAT not a fan of the new number rule? pic.twitter.com/MgIW06taDb

— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) April 22, 2021

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.

Tom Brady angry. pic.twitter.com/MJQgSEKzH6

— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) April 22, 2021

“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.”