Indianapolis Colts Jersey Numbers: A History of the Franchise
The Early Years
When the Indianapolis Colts were founded in 1953, they were known as the Baltimore Colts. The team's first jersey numbers were inspired by the Baltimore Orioles baseball team, which had a similar color scheme. The Colts adopted the Orioles' orange and black colors, and they also used similar jersey numbers. The Colts' first quarterback, Johnny Unitas, wore number 19, which was the same number worn by Orioles' star outfielder, Brooks Robinson.
Other early Colts players who wore notable jersey numbers include:
- Lenny Moore (21)
- Raymond Berry (24)
- Art Donovan (70)
The Super Bowl Era
The Colts won their first Super Bowl in 1970, and the team's jersey numbers played a role in that victory. Quarterback Earl Morrall wore number 15, which had been worn by Johnny Unitas. Running back John Mackey wore number 89, which had been worn by Raymond Berry. And defensive end Gino Marchetti wore number 89, which had been worn by Art Donovan. These three players were all key contributors to the Colts' Super Bowl victory.
Other notable Colts players who wore jersey numbers during the Super Bowl era include:
- Jim Irsay (12)
- Peyton Manning (18)
- Reggie Wayne (87)
The Modern Era
The Colts moved to Indianapolis in 1984, and the team's jersey numbers have continued to evolve since then. The Colts have retired several jersey numbers, including:
- 18 (Peyton Manning)
- 19 (Johnny Unitas)
- 21 (Lenny Moore)
- 24 (Raymond Berry)
- 70 (Art Donovan)
The Colts continue to wear their traditional orange and black colors, and the team's jersey numbers are a reminder of the franchise's rich history.
