Abdul Carter is officially a New York Giant, and with him comes a jersey number dilemma that could stir up some old-school emotions. The No. 11 jersey he wore at Penn State is already hanging in the rafters at MetLife Stadium, retired in honor of franchise legend Phil Simms. Simms, the MVP of Super Bowl XXI and a two-time champion had his number retired in 1995 after a 15-season career with the G-Men.
Carter, who donned No. 11 at Penn State—a number also worn by Cowboys star Micah Parsons—has openly expressed the significance of that jersey. He called wearing it one of the biggest honors of his life, a nod to the linebacker lineage that’s made waves out of Happy Valley. But in New York, that number is sacred territory.
This situation echoes last year’s scenario when Malik Nabers received permission from the family of Ray Flaherty to wear the previously retired No. 1 jersey. Could a similar arrangement be made for Carter? It’s definitely a possibility, but it would require the blessing of Simms and the Giants organization.
Giants face decision on Carter’s jersey number
The Giants now face a decision: allow Carter to continue wearing No. 11, with Simms’ approval, or assign him a new number. Given the precedent set with Nabers, it’s not unwarranted for the team to unretire a number with the original player’s family’s consent. However, Simms’ legacy as a cornerstone of the franchise might make this a little bit tougher.
Phil Simms hasn’t publicly said whether he’d approve an unretirement, but his reaction to the pick speaks volumes. “ABDUL CARTER GIVES NYG A GREAT DEF FRONT. JUST LIKE THE 4 SB WINNING TEAMS,” Simms tweeted Thursday night. It’s not a green light just yet, but it doesn’t sound like someone opposed to the idea. If there’s a path to No. 11 being worn again, Carter might be the kind of player—and person—who could earn that blessing.
As the Giants gear up for the season, Carter’s jersey number will be something to watch. Whether he sticks with No. 11 or breaks in something new, fans will be locked in on how he looks flying off the edge. We’re not saying hand over No. 56 just yet… but hey, crazier things have happened.
The good news? Joe Schoen didn’t overthink it. Now the only question is: what number will Carter be wrecking backfields in this fall?