I've raised this in the past, simple answer - YES.
I also believe a players number should be individualized (e.g. NBA.)
I know i'll be crucified for this, and i know i'll get the "we're not the NBA, we're not this or that, we're rugby league."
What it does however is opens up future sales for past, present and future player jerseys.
Example - Jordans #23 bulls jersey still sells a high amount to this day. It personalizes a player to a fan.
Fans want THEIR fav player on THEIR jersey. If they potentially chop and change their number to a position they fill then it becomes worthless.
How many people these days would still buy a #7 Johns or #6 Lewis etc. Think about it.