Who wore number 23 in NFL

We continue to explore the numbers in the National Football League’s history. It’s the turn of number 23. This number is eligible to receive the ball. It’s popular among running backs or tight ends, but it’s accessible to the defensive backs, too. The list was widened to the linebackers in 2023. These players may be eligible for reception, too. 23 is the rare number without retirements.

The first player with number 23 in NFL

Pro-Reference.com considers Bill Whalen from Cardinals the first number 23 in the league’s history. He wore it from 1920 to 1924. He played 11 games in total, including 5 starts. The player played in center, tackle, and guard positions.

The last player with number 23 before AV implementation

The defensive back <Al Rommie stopped wearing number 23 in 1958, two years before the league started to calculate the approximate value. This player had an extraordinary fate as he changed the team almost every year. He changed two teams in his rookie season – Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers. Then he travelled in CFL and Ontario Rugby Football Union before returning to Green Bay. In 1958, he changed teams again to Denver Broncos and lost number 23.

Top players with the highest AV

Troy Vincent – 168 AV

The defensive back Troy Vincent started his career in 1992 when the Miami Dolphins chose him in the draft’s first round. His primary role was defense and partly interceptions, but he acted in some punt or kick returns. The player played for Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins, and Philadelphia Eagles too. His best form was in the Eagles when he acted as a left cornerback. Vincent released 28 interceptions in 8 seasons, collecting 341 yards. The player participated in five Pro Bowls. He retired in 2006. His son Taron is a football defensive tackle but hasn’t gained NFL experience, spending only the offseason in the Los Angeles Rams. He is playing in UFL as of 2024.

Patrick Surtain – 81 AV

Another Miami Dolphins’ defensive back on our list. The team picked Patrick Surtain in the second round of the 1998 Draft. He played 108 games for the Dolphins, finished with 244 tackles performed, and released 6.5 sacks and three Pro Bowl qualifications in 2002, 2003 and 2004. His dream was the Super Bowl, but the Dolphins didn’t reach the decisive stage. The same fate waited for him in the Kansas City Chiefs, whom he joined in the 2005 season. He retired in 2008 without distinct achievements. Surtain expects his son, Patrick Surtain II, to lift the Bowl one day above his head and dedicate the victory to honour his famous father.

Joe Haden – 74 AV

Cleveland Browns chose this defensive back in the first round of the 2010 Draft. Joe Haden wore number 23 throughout his career except in the 2017 season when he changed the Browns to Steelers—his first season in the new team passed under number 21. However, he had no achievements except the three Pro Bowls. He retired in 2021.

Dave Whitsell – 69 AV

Dave Whitsell started his career in 1958 when the Detroit Lions picked him in the 24th round of the Draft. After three years in Detroit, he came on to the right cornerback role in the Chicago Bears and later in Norfolk. 1967 was the peak year in his career due to 11 points of approximate value and Pro Bowl involvement. The player retired from the New Orleans Saints in 1969.

Brig Owens – 68 AV

This player became a pick of the Washington Redskins in 1965 Drraft, but he debuted the next year. Brig Owens didn’t have any title or Pro Bowl, but his game impacted Redsakins. Owens was a nominal defensive back but played safety during his career.

The pivot percentage in baseball shows how well and easily a player can switch from one position or role to another during the game. This term shows how versatile and adaptable a player is on the field by showing how well they can do different jobs or positions as needed during the game. It emphasizes the player’s ability to quickly adapt and do well in different situations, which helps the team’s overall strategy and performance.