What position does 0 play in football?

Zero in the NFL: A Number, Not a Position

In American football, zero ("0") is not a field position at all. Instead, it is a jersey numeral that dynamic playmakers across various positions can wear on game day.

For decades, strict standardization rules kept the digit off NFL uniforms. However, the league revised its jersey numbering system to give teams greater flexibility. Under these updated guidelines, almost any non-lineman can wear zero. This includes quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, linebackers, defensive backs, kickers, and punters. The only players excluded from donning the number are offensive and defensive linemen, who remain restricted to higher numerical ranges to help officials identify eligible receivers easily.

While the number feels like a modern trend borrowed from college football, it actually has historical roots. Back in the 1940s, Johnny Clement famously wore zero while playing quarterback and halfback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Today, the digit has quickly become a popular choice for stars looking to stand out on the field.