The New York Giants had a strong showing in the first round of last week’s NFL Draft. Their top two picks were Penn State’s Abdul Carter and Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart. Dart is seen as more of a long-term developmental project, while Carter is expected to be a cornerstone of the defense and form a dynamic duo with Kayvon Thibodeaux.
The current plan for Dart is to sit behind Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston for at least the upcoming season—possibly even the following one.
“So again, Jaxson's going to come in, he's got to learn the offense, there's a lot to learn, these NFL offenses are hard to grasp and pick up and then be able to go out and execute, so the ability for him to learn and sit behind two consummate pros already will be beneficial for him,” Joe Schoen said.
Carter’s situation is a bit more complicated—not on the field, but with his jersey number. Initially, he wanted to wear No. 56, but that number was famously retired in honor of Lawrence Taylor, who quickly shut down the idea.
“Get another number," Taylor said. "I don't care if it's double zero, and then make it famous."
On Friday afternoon, Carter appeared to find hope when Phil Simms, who wore No. 11, signaled that he would allow Carter to wear his retired number.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“Good news for Giants fans who believe in tradition. Phil Simms' #11 will not be coming out of retirement for first-round pick Abdul Carter, who wore 11 at Penn State,” Gary Myers posted.
Carter then took to social media with a lighthearted reaction, joking about going numberless.
“D**n at this point imma be out there with just my last name on my jersey, no number. Jkjk, It’s all Love. Just wanna play Football,” Carter wrote.
This jersey number saga has become more drawn out than expected. While Warren Moon was gracious in letting Cam Ward wear his number, not every legend is as willing to pass the torch.