Malik Nabers to Honor Giants' Legacy by Wearing Historic No. 1 Jersey
When it comes to honoring the rich history of a storied franchise like the New York Giants, every detail counts. In a significant move that underscores both respect for history and a bright future, the Giants' rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers has been granted the honor of wearing the No. 1 jersey—a number steeped in the team's legacy.
Selected in the first round, Nabers arrived at the Giants with high expectations. During the training camp and preseason, he wore the No. 9 jersey, catching the eyes of both fans and coaches. On Wednesday, the Giants announced that Nabers will switch to the No. 1 jersey—a number not worn in a game by any Giants player since 1935.
A Historic Decision
The last player to don the No. 1 jersey for the Giants was Ray Flaherty, a name revered in NFL history for both his on-field talent and coaching acumen. Flaherty won two NFL championships as a head coach and one as a player, firmly cementing his legacy. He was also the first professional football player to have his number retired—a rare distinction that speaks volumes about his impact on the sport.
There's a reason this jersey has remained untouched for nearly 90 years. Giants president John Mara touched on the importance of bringing the number back into circulation: "It's a nice story because it will maybe remind people why No. 1 was retired in the first place and they'll learn a little bit about Ray Flaherty. It's a nice story for us to be able to educate people about who he was."
New Era, Same Pride
For Nabers, the opportunity to wear the iconic jersey comes with both honor and responsibility. The young receiver expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you to the Flaherty family for allowing me to wear Number 1 for the New York Giants. I understand the responsibility, and I will do everything in my power to honor the Flaherty family and this organization. I will wear the number with great pride. Can't wait for the season to start.”
Recognizing the historical weight of this move, Ray Flaherty Jr. added a meaningful caveat: the jersey will be "re-retired" after Nabers' career with the Giants concludes. This ensures that the No. 1 jersey remains a symbol of both historical greatness and future promise.
From Baton Rouge to Big Blue
Nabers' journey to this point has been nothing short of spectacular. In 2023, he earned unanimous All-American honors at LSU, showcasing his talents as one of the most prolific receivers in college football. His stats are staggering: 89 receptions for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns in a single season. Even more impressive, Nabers holds the record for most receptions (189) and receiving yards (3,003) in LSU history—a school known for producing top-tier NFL talent.
Educational Opportunity
While the focus is often on wins and stats, this decision also serves as an educational opportunity. Giants' president John Mara highlighted this aspect, noting the chance to remind fans—both old and new—about why the No. 1 jersey was retired initially. In a world where sports often look forward, it's moments like these that offer a rare reflection on the past.
Looking Ahead
As Nabers steps onto the field wearing the historic No. 1, he'll not only be carrying the weight of his own burgeoning career but also the legacy of a player who defined an era. The Giants have carefully considered this iconic reissue, knowing full well the implications it brings. With Malik Nabers ready to make his mark, the No. 1 jersey will once again become a symbol of excellence and tradition in New York Giants history.