Report: Strong support for easing restrictions on jersey numbers

The NFL appears set to expand jersey number options as the rule change is garnering strong support among teams, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

The Kansas City Chiefs advocated for allowing certain positions to wear single-digit numbers after running into issues elevating players from the practice squad last season due to their amount of retired numbers.

The proposal would set a new range of numbers for all positions:

• Quarterbacks, punters, and kickers: 1–19
• Running backs: 1–49, 80–89
• Defensive backs: 1–49
• Linebackers: 1–59, 90–99
• Offensive lineman: 50–79
• Defensive lineman: 50–79, 90–99

A host of players have come out in support of the change. Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey and Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott said they're intrigued by the idea of returning to their college numbers.

Another rule that's expected to be approved by the league expands the replay official's role, Pelissero reports.

The proposal, put forward by the competition committee, "will allow the replay official and members of the officiating department in New York to advise on-field officials on specific, objective aspects of a play based on video evidence."

However, the NFL is reportedly unlikely to pass the Philadelphia Eagles' proposal for a fourth-and-15 offensive play from the kicking team's 25-yard line as an alternative to an onside kick.

Instead, the league hopes a competition committee proposal to limit the number of players in the setup zone will reverse the declining success rate of onside kicks in recent years.

Voting for the new rules takes place on April 21.