The Chicago Bears don't normally allow players to wear the uniform numbers that were made iconic by the superstars from the organization's illustrious history. Retired numbers often do they heavy lifting when it comes to gating most iconic jerseys, but there are a few that aren't retired, so the Bears have to determine when they will allow the number to be used. Bears fans, the newly signed Grady Jarrett just got one of the most iconic jersey numbers in history.
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Jarrett, who is expected to play a pivotal role on the Bears' interior defensive line and in the locker room as a leader, will be wearing Mike Singletary's No. 50 jersey during his first season in Chicago.
That’s not just a number. No. 50 is synonymous with one of the greatest linebackers to ever suit up for the Bears—or any NFL team, for that matter. Singletary’s legacy lives in the middle of Soldier Field, even if his number was never officially retired. And now, a two-time Pro Bowler in Jarrett will have the honor of carrying it forward.
Jarrett has long been respected not just for his production, but for his presence. The former Falcons standout brings an edge to Chicago’s revamped defense, and being handed No. 50 suggests the organization sees him as more than just a contributor—they see him as a leader.
Before hardcore Singletary fans get upset, it's important to note that the 7-time All-Pro and HOFer has said he would prefer his number stay in circulation. So, it's not as if the Bears are disrespecting him. They're actually honoring his wishes.
This distinction also opens up a broader conversation about how teams honor their legends. Jarrett may be the face of a quiet shift in how iconic numbers are treated moving forward.
I'd like to see every NFL number back in circulation for every team. Some organizations have a serious number shortage because of retired numbers and it prevents players from wearing a number that matters to them.
Bears rookie Luther Burden II would love to wear No. 3, but the Bears retired it to honor Bronko Nagurski who last played in 1943. I think players should be inducted into an organization's ring of honor rather than having their numbers retired.
The only numbers that should be retired in any sport are 42 in baseball, which is in place; 24 and 8 in the NBA for Kobe Bryant, 23 for Michael Jordan, 6 for LeBron James and 99 in the NHL for Wayne Gretzky.
Those numbers should be retired across the entire league, not just specific organizations to honor the otherworldly impact of those players on the league.
All that said, I can’t wait to watch Jarrett hopefully do the No. 50 justice in 2025.