Abdul Carter’s Jersey Number Rejection: A Rookie’s First Lesson in Giants Lore

By Jason Bolton April 28, 2025 21:29

The New York Giants drafted Abdul Carter third overall last week with visions of him terrorizing quarterbacks for years to come. But before the Penn State pass rusher could even step onto the field, he received his first NFL reality check-this one from Lawrence Taylor himself. Carter’s request to wear Taylor’s retired No. 56 jersey was swiftly denied by the Hall of Famer, setting the tone for a rookie season already brimming with expectations and lessons.

The Bold Ask and the Blunt Response

Carter, who idolizes Taylor and studies his game tapes, floated the idea of wearing No. 56 during his draft-night interview. The number has been retired since 1994, but recent exceptions-like Malik Nabers wearing retired No. 1 last season-offered hope. Taylor, however, shut it down with trademark directness. “I know he would love to wear that number,” Taylor told the New York Post. “But, hey, I think it’s retired. Get another number. I don’t care if it’s double zero, and then make it famous.”

Carter took the rejection in stride, posting on X: “The worst thing he could say was NO!! My stance don’t change, LT is the 🐐. Nothing but respect… This just gonna make me work even harder!! I love it.” The response showcased the rookie’s humility and competitive fire, traits the Giants hope will define his career.

Why No. 56 Is Sacred in New York

Taylor’s number isn’t just retired-it’s a monument to one of the most dominant careers in NFL history. Over 13 seasons, Taylor racked up 142 sacks, two Super Bowl rings, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and an MVP (a rarity for defensive players). His ferocity redefined the linebacker position and helped turn the Giants into a 1980s powerhouse.

“It’s not just a number; it’s a legacy,” said longtime Giants beat writer Art Stapleton. “You don’t unretire that unless you’re prepared to invite comparisons no rookie could live up to.” Taylor himself emphasized this, telling ESPN: “He has to be the player that he is. He can’t be another Lawrence Taylor. Well, he may be better than a Lawrence Taylor, who knows? But he has to make his mark.”

Carter’s Path Forward

With No. 56 and his college No. 11 (retired for Phil Simms) off the table, Carter must now choose a new digit. The decision carries weight: jersey numbers often become synonymous with a player’s identity, especially in a market as scrutinized as New York. Recent history offers a blueprint-Kayvon Thibodeaux’s No. 5 and Dexter Lawrence’s No. 97 have become staples of the Giants’ defense.

Carter’s on-field credentials suggest he’ll thrive regardless of the number. At Penn State, he led the nation with 23.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks last season, showcasing a blend of speed and power that drew comparisons to Micah Parsons. Paired with Thibodeaux and Brian Burns, Carter could anchor a defensive resurgence for a Giants team that ranked 27th in sacks in 2024.

The Bigger Picture: Respecting the Past While Building the Future

Taylor’s refusal wasn’t just about protecting his legacy-it was a challenge. “Make your own mark,” he told Carter, a sentiment echoed by Giants fans who’ve seen too many draft picks falter under the weight of expectations. The message? Greatness in New York isn’t inherited; it’s earned.

Carter seems to understand. “Adding me to [this defense] is going to be dope,” he said after being drafted. “It’s going to be the most dominant group.” If he delivers on that promise, the number on his jersey will become an afterthought. For now, though, the episode serves as a reminder: in the NFL, respect for legends like Taylor isn’t negotiable-even for a top-three pick.