Abdul Carter, the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, prepares for his first season as a full-time starter. Now he finds himself in a distinct pickle with his jersey number. Carter joked that he would start wearing 56 while playing at Penn State. Now, he dreams of donning the retired no. As far as the New York Giants are concerned, Taylor’s No. 56 is never coming back.
Carter approached the Giants’ organization with the request to wear Taylor’s iconic number, recognizing the weight it carries in NFL history. When discussing it publicly on social media, he announced wearing Taylor’s No. 56 would be “an honor.” Taylor has encouraged Carter to be an original and chart his own course. He thinks Carter can’t afford to rest on the legacy of greatness.
In a recent interview, Taylor conveyed his support for Carter’s aspirations while encouraging him to create his own identity on the field.
“I think it would be a lot of fun. It wouldn’t bother me.” – Lawrence Taylor
The Giants’ track record with jersey numbers is checkered, at times unretiring numbers for notable players. Former Giants QB Phil Simms was similarly excited at the prospect of having his No. 11 jersey unretired. He would have just as willingly given it to either Carter or fellow draft classmate Jaxson Dart. Yet, as he explained recently, family agreement eventually resulted in the continued retirement of No. 11.
“I’d let him have it in a second. Can you just help it a little or make it better?” – Phil Simms
This would not be the first time an athlete has worn a retired number. The Giants’ move was a strong indication of how serious they are about honoring the past legends. Penn State linebacker and first year Abdul Carter took the approach with a bit more levity. He laughed at the prospect of taking the field with only his last name on his jersey if this persists.
“Damn at this point imma be out there with just my last name on my jersey, no number😂😂😂 Jkjk, It’s all Love. Just wanna play Football!” – Abdul Carter
Carter isn’t the only rookie who’s been electrifying. Malik Nabers has obtained approval from the family of Ray Flaherty to wear No. 11, complicating the conversation further about retired numbers in the team’s history.
Carter’s preparing to get his NFL career started. Every time he does, the discussions regarding his jersey number underscore his own individual goals and the deep tradition and history of the Giants. The rookie’s journey to establish himself on the field continues as he considers what will ultimately adorn his jersey come game day.
Leave a Reply