NFL players and their uniform numbers are inextricably connected. The numbers are how fans quickly recognize players on the field. They become part of each player's persona, and fans proudly rock them when they wear an NFL jersey. Sometimes the numbers even become an iconic brand, such as Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady's TB12.
But how does a player end up with his uniform number?
We asked 15 NFL rookies why they chose their numbers as NFL training camp gets underway. Their answers include tributes to family, paying respect to NFL heroes, making a number their own and some funny responses, such as not really knowing Troy Aikman and failed attempts to claim the number from a veteran teammate.