Nabers to Revive a Historic Number for the Giants
Malik Nabers, the New York Giants' standout rookie receiver, is stepping into the spotlight with a unique distinction. Drafted in the first round, Nabers quickly demonstrated his potential during training camp and the preseason, donning the No. 9 jersey. However, as the regular season approaches, the Giants have announced that Nabers will wear the iconic No. 1 jersey. This decision reverberates through Giants history, marking the first time since 1935 that a player will sport this number in a game.
Ray Flaherty's Legacy
The No. 1 jersey carries the weight of history, last worn by the legendary Ray Flaherty. Flaherty's storied career with the Giants is a cornerstone of the franchise's early success. As both a player and a head coach, Flaherty left an indelible mark on the NFL. He secured two NFL championships as a coach and another as a player, earning his place in football lore. Notably, Flaherty was the first professional football player to have his number retired, underscoring his monumental impact on the sport.
Nabers' New Responsibility
Taking on the No. 1 jersey is a significant honor and responsibility for Nabers, who understands the legacy he is inheriting. "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," said Nabers. His gratitude and determination suggest he is ready to meet the challenges that lie ahead.
This decision also serves as an educational moment for Giants fans and the broader NFL community. Giants president John Mara highlighted the opportunity to revisit the history behind Flaherty's retired number. "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," commented Mara.
Nabers' Stellar College Career
Before joining the Giants, Nabers built an impressive resume at LSU. In 2023, he earned unanimous All-American honors, showcasing his exceptional talent on the field. Nabers caught 89 passes for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns that year, cementing his status as one of college football's elite receivers. His performance was not a one-season wonder; he holds LSU records for most receptions (189) and receiving yards (3,003) in the school’s history. These achievements have set high expectations for his NFL career and the legacy he hopes to build in New York.
Future of the No. 1 Jersey
Though Nabers is set to wear the No. 1 jersey now, its status as a retired number is only temporarily lifted. Ray Flaherty Jr. has stated that the number will be "re-retired if you will" once Nabers' tenure with the Giants concludes. This unique arrangement shows the deep respect the Giants organization and the Flaherty family have for the history and tradition of the NFL.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Malik Nabers as he takes the field in his new jersey. His journey and performance will not only honor Ray Flaherty’s legacy but also add a new chapter to the storied history of the New York Giants.