NFL forces Patriots to give players numbered jerseys for practice

In recent seasons, the New England Patriots gave players numberless jerseys for offseason practices with the idea that it would force players to improve their communication and really get to know one another.

Whether it achieved that goal is up for debate, but the Patriots will no longer be permitted to artificially anonymize their players.

The NFL has instituted a new rule requiring all players to wear a numbered jersey during offseason workouts, ESPN's Mike Reiss reports.

This isn't an attempt by Roger Goodell to needle the Patriots. Rather, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said it will help the league monitor things to "ensure clubs are in compliance with workplace rules," meaning teams won't be able to sneak ineligible or injured players onto the field.