New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter is aiming high as he begins his NFL journey—and he’s considering wearing a number that carries historic weight. After being selected third overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Carter mentioned he’s thinking about donning the No. 56 jersey. This number holds deep significance in Giants history, having been retired in 1993 in honor of a franchise legend. Since then, no player has worn it, and Carter’s potential claim to it has stirred conversation.
When asked by Cowboys star Micah Parsons if he would wear No. 11 in New York, Carter hinted at something much bigger. Smiling, he said, “56 sounds real good… but we gotta have a conversation.” His boldness earned immediate respect, with Parsons commending him for the ambition, calling it “legendary stuff.”
𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: #Giants legend Lawrence Taylor has officially said no to Abdul Carter wearing #56, per @nypost
“I know he would love to wear that number, but hey, I think it’s retired. Get another number, I don’t care if it’s double zero, and then make it famous.” pic.twitter.com/TkYSO84FKo
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) April 26, 2025
However, not everyone was on board with Carter’s idea. Giants legend Lawrence Taylor, the original owner of No. 56 and one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, responded firmly. Taylor explained that although he understood Carter’s desire, the number was retired and should remain untouched. He encouraged Carter to choose a different number—any number—and work toward making it iconic in his own right.
Taylor’s response wasn’t a dismissal of Carter’s potential but a reminder about legacy. Over his 13-year career with the Giants, Taylor accumulated 10 Pro Bowl appearances, eight All-Pro honors, and became the first defensive player to unanimously win the NFL MVP award in 1986. Carter, for his part, had a stellar college career at Penn State, earning First-Team All-Big Ten honors, Freshman All-American recognition, and being a Butkus Award semifinalist. His relentless energy and ability to impact games have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s elite.
While Carter won’t be allowed to wear the sacred No. 56, this outcome gives him a unique opportunity—to forge his own legacy free from constant comparisons to Taylor. Instead of living under the shadow of a legend, Carter can build his own reputation and make a new number famous with the Giants.
The Giants’ decision to draft Carter was swift and decisive. After Cam Ward was selected first overall by the Titans and Travis Hunter went second to the Jaguars, Carter was available at No. 3, and New York didn’t hesitate. Carter’s selection is seen as a move to transform the Giants’ defense and bring back memories of dominant players from the franchise’s storied past.
Adding to the intrigue, Carter is now teammates with another familiar face: quarterback Jaxson Dart. Their paths first crossed during the 2023 Peach Bowl, when Dart’s Ole Miss team defeated Carter’s Penn State squad. During the game, Carter delivered a memorable hit on Dart that forced a fumble, a moment that left a lasting impression. Despite their on-field clash, both players expressed mutual respect. Dart recalled knowing Carter’s talent from the start, while Carter acknowledged Dart’s toughness after the game.
Now, reunited in New York, the former college rivals will look to build a strong future together with the Giants. What began as fierce competition has transformed into a partnership, adding an exciting storyline to the team’s future.