NFL teams have 100 numbers available for players (0-99), but that number is lower for clubs with retired numbers.
The Denver Broncos only have three numbers officially retired, and they also have three other numbers that seem to be unofficially retired. That brings Denver’s total jersey numbers available down to 94.
In addition to retired numbers, there are also positional rules to take into account. A few examples: quarterbacks are limited to numbers between 0-19. Defensive backs are limited to numbers 0-49, offensive linemen are limited to 50-79 and defensive linemen are limited to 50-79 and 90-99.
With limited numbers available and not every player eligible to wear every number, players are allowed to share numbers during the offseason if they play on opposite sides of the ball.
Ahead of training camp, the Broncos have three sets of players on the 90-man offseason roster with shared numbers: running back Tyler Badie and defensive back Quinton Newsome share No. 36; defensive back Keidron Smith and running back Blake Watson share No. 43 and tight end/fullback Nate Adkins and defensive back Omar Brown share No. 45.
If players who share the same number both end up making the 53-man roster, one of them has to change their number before the regular season begins.
36: RB Tyler Badie (offense)
36: DB Quinton Newsome (defense)
43: RB Blake Watson (offense)
43: DB Keidron Smith (defense)
45: TE Nate Adkins (offense)
45: DB Omar Brown (defense)
