Abdul Carter’s Jersey Journey: Giants Rookie Navigates the Legacy of Retired Numbers

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Abdul Carter, the New York Giants’ top draft pick in 2025, may soon become as well known for his jersey number as for his play on the field—though not by choice. Drafted third overall, Carter hoped to carry on his collegiate identity by donning No. 11, the number he wore at Penn State. However, Carter quickly found that in the NFL, especially with a franchise steeped in tradition like the Giants, some numbers are more than just fabric—they're sacred. Carter’s first attempt to claim a legendary number came when he asked about wearing No. 56, the iconic jersey of Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor. Taylor, widely considered the greatest defensive player in NFL history, politely declined the request. According to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan, Taylor told Carter to “make his own mark,” encouraging the rookie to forge a new legacy rather than try to wear an old one. Next, Carter shifted his attention to No. 11—this time with a glimmer of hope. Phil Simms, the former Giants quarterback and Super Bowl XXI MVP, said in an interview on FanDuel TV that he would be willing to let Carter, or fellow first-rounder Jaxson Dart, wear the retired number. “I’d let him have it in a second,” Simms said, even suggesting that a new wearer could “make it better.” Carter responded enthusiastically on social media, saying, “It would be an HONOR.”

However, that excitement was short-lived. In a conversation with longtime New York Daily News reporter Gary Myers, Simms revealed that his family ultimately opposed the idea. Despite his own willingness, Simms was “outvoted,” and the No. 11 will remain retired in New York. This is not the first time the Giants have considered unretiring a number for a special player. In 2024, first-round pick Malik Nabers was granted permission to wear No. 1 after receiving approval from the family of the late Ray Flaherty. However, such exceptions are rare and heavily influenced by family sentiment and franchise culture. Now Carter is left in limbo, humorously wondering what will be on the back of his jersey come kickoff. Despite the number saga, his situation illustrates something larger: the weight of tradition in professional football. While Carter’s talent is undeniable, he'll need to find a new number—and a new identity—in a league where history still casts a long shadow.