The N.F.L. is deciding whether the number system is necessary, and if not, to what extent players should be free to choose their numbers. Next week, the eight-member competition committee will probably recommend that the team owners adopt a more flexible system starting in 2007 ? one that allows running backs and receivers to choose a number from 1 to 49. At least 24 of the league's 32 teams would have to approve a revision.