'Joe Montana Spotlights NFL Players' New Opportunity by Embracing No. 0, Praising Joe Burrow's Integrity'

Joe Montana discusses his NFL number, the changing rules on jersey numbers, and the evolving role of quarterbacks.

Sports Seriously had the opportunity to sit down with legendary NFL quarterback Joe Montana at Super Bowl LVII Radio Row. The conversation covered a range of topics, including Montana's thoughts on the recent rule change allowing players to wear the No. 0 jersey.

Montana shared an amusing anecdote about how he ended up with his iconic No. 16 jersey. When he first joined the San Francisco 49ers after being drafted in 1979, he had hoped to wear his college number, but the equipment manager had other plans. Montana recounted, "I was trying to get my college number, and the old equipment manager goes, 'Here, here's your number.' I go, 'I'd like to get No. 3.' He goes, 'No, here's your number.' That's it."

The conversation then turned to the recent rule change allowing players, except offensive and defensive linemen, to wear the No. 0 jersey. Montana expressed his support for the change, saying, "I think it's great... The NFL is starting to relax a little bit." He also highlighted how colleges have allowed players to wear unconventional numbers, such as defensive ends wearing No. 9, and now the NFL is following suit.

Montana is currently partnering with Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to promote Guinness 0, the non-alcoholic product from the Irish brewery. Montana, who has been a spokesperson for Guinness since 2020, praised Guinness 0 for its taste, saying, "You couldn't tell the difference."

The partnership between Montana and Burrow includes a campaign called "Unsung Zeros," which features the two quarterbacks in a locker room encounter. In the campaign, Burrow is seen wearing a No. 0 branded jersey, prompting Montana to ask if he plans to change his playing number from No. 9. The campaign also includes the release of replica jerseys, with proceeds going to The Joe Burrow Foundation, a charity that supports underprivileged communities in Cincinnati and Baton Rouge.

Montana spoke highly of Burrow's character and his commitment to giving back. He noted, "I think so many people get to this level... and then forget about all these things that are important to other people outside... That speaks I think so highly of him and his integrity."

The conversation also touched on the evolving role of quarterbacks in the game of football. Montana pointed to quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, who have showcased the importance of the position. He noted that while quarterbacks have become running threats, teams that are successful still rely on running backs to carry the ball. Montana emphasized the importance of quarterbacks playing mainly in the pocket for consistent team success.

Overall, the interview provided insights into Montana's thoughts on the No. 0 jersey rule change, his partnership with Joe Burrow, and his observations on the evolving role of quarterbacks in the NFL.

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