The National Football League (NFL) is easily one of the most-watched sports leagues in the world. With millions of fans around the globe, there is no shortage of demand for NFL merchandise, particularly NFL jerseys.
Over the years, some players have made more of an impact than others, and this is reflected in the popularity of their jerseys. In this article, we’ll be breaking down the most popular NFL jerseys of the 21st century, and the numbers that made them iconic.
1. Tom Brady
It’s no surprise that Tom Brady tops the list of the most popular NFL jerseys of the 21st century. Widely regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time, Brady has amassed a legion of fans throughout his career. According to NFL Shop, Brady’s New England Patriots jersey was the top-selling NFL jersey in 2016, 2017, and 2018, with his Tampa Bay Buccaneers jersey also proving popular in 2020.
2. Peyton Manning
Retired quarterback Peyton Manning is another popular choice among NFL fans. He spent most of his career with the Indianapolis Colts before finishing up with the Denver Broncos, and his jerseys were a staple for footy fans during that time. His Colts jersey was the top-selling NFL jersey in 2004 and 2005, and his Broncos jersey was the second-most popular in 2013.
3. Brett Favre
Brett Favre is a quarterback legend whose NFL career spanned over two decades. He played for the Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings during his time in the league, and his popularity never wavered. Favre’s Packers jersey was the top-selling NFL jersey in 2007, and his Vikings jersey was the second-most popular in 2009.
4. Aaron Rodgers
Another player who has made a name for himself with the Green Bay Packers is Aaron Rodgers. Known for his incredible accuracy and ability to make plays under pressure, Rodgers has earned a legion of fans throughout his career. His Packers jersey was the second-most popular NFL jersey in 2015 and 2016, and the third-most popular in 2018.
5. Ray Lewis
Retired linebacker Ray Lewis had an incredible career with the Baltimore Ravens, and his jersey remains a fan favorite to this day. His Ravens jersey was the top-selling NFL jersey in 2006, and the second-most popular in 2008.
6. Rob Gronkowski
Rob Gronkowski, who has recently come out of retirement, is another popular player among NFL fans. His New England Patriots jersey was the top-seller in 2015, and his Tampa Bay Buccaneers jersey has been popular since joining the team in 2020.
7. Dak Prescott
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott burst onto the scene in 2016 and has since become a fan favorite. His Cowboys jersey was the second-most popular in the NFL in 2017, and the fifth-most popular in 2018.
8. J.J. Watt
Defensive end J.J. Watt is a fan-favorite thanks to his incredible strength and consistent talent. His Houston Texans jersey was the fourth-most popular in the NFL in 2015 and the fifth-most popular in 2016.
9. Marshawn Lynch
Retired running back Marshawn Lynch is a cult favorite among NFL fans. Known for his forthrightness in interviews and his love of Skittles, Lynch’s jerseys have continued to sell well even after he hung up his cleats. His Seattle Seahawks jersey was the fourth-most popular in the NFL in 2014 and the eighth-most popular in 2015.
10. Ezekiel Elliott
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott has emerged as one of the most exciting young players in the league. His Cowboys jersey was the third-most popular in the NFL in 2016, the first-most popular in 2018, and the second-most popular in 2019.
In conclusion, these are the ten most popular NFL jerseys of the 21st century, as determined by their sales numbers. While some players have retired and others have only recently joined the league, their jerseys remain a popular choice among fans who are looking to show their support for their favorite teams and players. It’s no doubt that the popularity of these jerseys will continue to fluctuate as players switch teams or retire, but it’s always interesting to see which players capture the hearts and wallets of fans.
