Abdul Carter had his hopes set on wearing Lawrence Taylor’s iconic No. 56 jersey for the New York Giants, but Taylor wasn’t on board with that idea. However, Carter might have better luck with another Giants legend, Phil Simms, who seems more open to the idea of un-retiring his No. 11 jersey. Simms, who enjoyed a successful career with the Giants, mentioned on FanDuel TV that he wouldn’t mind letting Carter or rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart wear his old number.
Simms shared with friends that he’d gladly give up his jersey number, jokingly asking if they could just make it a little better. Carter, clearly excited by Simms’ openness, reposted the clip and expressed on X that it would be an “HONOR” to don Simms’ number. This isn’t the first time the Giants have considered un-retiring a number; last year, they did so for Malik Nabers, who wore Ray Flaherty’s No. 1 and had a stellar rookie season.
Nabers, with the blessing of Flaherty’s family, set a franchise record for receptions, proving he was worthy of the honor. Simms, known for his two Super Bowl wins with the Giants, has a history of supporting the team and its players. His willingness to offer his number to the new generation speaks volumes about his character and love for the game.
Meanwhile, Carter and Dart, the Giants’ first-round picks, were seen posing for photos, eagerly awaiting their chance to prove themselves on the field. Carter’s enthusiasm about possibly wearing Simms’ number highlights the respect and admiration young players hold for past Giants legends. For now, the decision rests with Simms, his family, and his agent.
The Giants have a history of honoring their greats while also making room for new talent. Last season’s move with Nabers shows the team’s flexibility and desire to blend tradition with fresh talent. As the Giants gear up for another season, all eyes will be on their rookies and how they carry forward the legacy of those who came before them.
Simms’ career with the Giants spanned 14 seasons, during which he amassed a record of 95-64 as a starter. His impact on the team is undeniable, and his potential gesture to Carter or Dart could be seen as a passing of the torch. While Simms may not have the final say, his openness to the idea is a testament to his generous spirit.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how the Giants’ new players integrate into the team. The opportunity to wear a retired number is a rare honor and reflects the trust and hope the franchise places in its rising stars. Whether Carter gets to wear No. 11 or not, his excitement and readiness to contribute are clear.
Phil Simms’ legacy with the Giants is one of hard work, dedication, and success. His willingness to share his number with the next generation underscores his commitment to the team’s future success. As the Giants navigate the current season, the blend of seasoned veterans and promising rookies will be key to their performance on the field.
