NFL passes controversial new rule for next season with Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills derided by fans

NFL fans have reacted to a major new rule change set to take effect next season.

The league announced on Tuesday that teams will be allowed to issue the No. 0 jersey to players for the 2023 season.

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The change was first proposed by last year’s NFC champions Philadelphia Eagles.

In a statement, the NFL clarified, “Players may use zero (“0”) as their jersey number.

“Kickers and players can use any jersey number between 0-49 and 90-99.”

The rule change proved crucial among the NFL fan base, and many were divided on the issue.

One fan said on Twitter: “I absolutely love this. Anything for it.”

While another agreed: “Major W.”

But a third countered, “The one time I wanted the Eagles to lose something…”

And another added: “Brutal news. Immediately hate any player who wears 0.”

While fans also mocked certain players they believed should take the shirt next season.

One fan laughed: “Dak [should wear No.0] to represent the number of times the Cowboys have been eliminated in the second round over the past 27 years.”

While a second said: “Josh Allen as the bills don’t have rings.”

And another commented, “Russell Wilson to represent his number of career MVP votes.”

Between 1973 and 2022, the No. 0 jersey was not issued to any player in the NFL.

Ken Burrough of the Houston Oilers wore ‘OO’ during his career in the 1970s.

Before 1973, Johnny Clement, Johnny Olszewski and Obert Logan all wore a zero on their chest.

In 2001, Patriots linebacker Bryan Cox wore 0 in the preseason but switched to #51 for the regular campaign.

It has been popular in college football, however, as Alabama tight end Darnell Washington may bring his No. 0 jersey to the NFL next season.

At this year’s NFL Convention, 17 rules of the game, three bylaws and three general manager-approved resolutions were passed.

Other rule changes for 2023 include an automatic review of narrow failed fourth-down attempts, tripping that becomes a personal foul, and clarification on helmet hits.