Abdul Carter whiffs on another Giants legend's number: 'Just my last name on my jersey'
Context:
Abdul Carter, a promising edge rusher picked by the New York Giants, faces a challenge in choosing a jersey number due to the team's many retired numbers. Initially, Carter sought permission from Lawrence Taylor to wear No. 56, a number retired by the Giants, but was denied. Former quarterback Phil Simms offered Carter to wear his retired No. 11, a number Carter wore at Penn State, but Simms' family ultimately vetoed the decision. This situation led Carter to humorously remark that he might play with just his last name on his jersey, highlighting the lightheartedness amidst the challenges of selecting a number. The Giants have a history of un-retiring numbers, as seen when Ray Flaherty's No. 1 was given to rookie Malik Nabers, who went on to set a franchise record for receptions in a season.
Dive Deeper:
Abdul Carter, selected third overall by the New York Giants, intended to wear No. 56, a number worn by legendary Giant Lawrence Taylor, but Taylor denied permission as the number was retired in 1994.
Phil Simms, whose No. 11 was retired by the Giants in 1995, offered Carter the opportunity to wear his number, which Carter had worn during his tenure at Penn State, symbolizing a badge of honor.
Despite Simms' willingness, his family voted against allowing Carter to use the number, causing Carter to joke about playing with just his last name on his jersey if no numbers were available.
The Giants have historically retired 13 numbers for 14 players, including dual retirements, such as No. 14 for Ward Cuff and Y.A. Tittle, limiting jersey number options for new players.
Although Carter's request was denied, the Giants previously un-retired Ray Flaherty's No. 1 for wide receiver Malik Nabers, who successfully set a rookie record for most receptions in a season.
Micah Parsons, another former Penn State player and previous wearer of No. 11, currently wears the number with the Dallas Cowboys, showing its significance and legacy among Nittany Lion alumni.
The situation highlights the challenges and traditions associated with jersey numbers in the NFL, especially for teams with rich histories like the New York Giants.