NFL Uniform Rules & Regulations

General Uniform Rules | Uniform Fines | Inspectors
Head & Helmet Rules | Shirt & Jersey Rules | Arms & Sleeves Rules
Hands & Wrists Rules | Waist & Belt Rules | Pants & Shorts Rules
Socks Rules | Shoe Rules

General Uniform Rules:

• NFL players are required to dress to the highest levels of professionalism. The NFL's Uniform and Equipment policy was implemented primarily for player safety and to ensure that the game and its players are presented in a professional manner.
• Endorsements can't supercede league licensing agreements, it is stipulated that "items to celebrate anniversaries or memorable events, or to honor or commemorate individuals, such as helmet decals and arm bands and jersey patches on players uniforms, are prohibited unless approved in advance by the league office."
• All on-field personnel, coaches included, must wear Reebok on the field. This often times can create a conflict for players with individual endorsement contracts with competitors such as Nike. For instance, if a quarterback leaves the game and wants to put on a baseball cap, it has to be a Reebok cap.
• Teams must report to the league what color uniform and shoes they will wear. Individual players are not allowed to deviate from that color.
• A player is subject to a violation as soon as he steps on the field to warm up.
• The restrictions don't end with the final gun. Players must continue to adhere to the rules for another 90 minutes, ensuring they don't wear competing logos in postgame TV interviews. The inspectors are there to monitor.
• Once the game uniform inspection form goes to the league, officials there review game tapes and decide whether to fine.
• Slippery substances on the body, equipment or uniform of any player are prohibited.