New York Giants Rookie Malik Nabers to Wear Historic No. 1 Jersey
The New York Giants' rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers is set to carry a piece of history onto the field this season. Selected in the first round, Nabers’ journey with the Giants is gaining significance as the franchise announced he will don the iconic No. 1 jersey. This decision marks a poignant moment for the team and its fans, as it will be the first time since 1935 that the number graces the field in a game.
The No. 1 jersey holds deep roots within the Giants' history, having been last worn by Ray Flaherty, a legendary figure who achieved outstanding success both on the field and on the sidelines. Flaherty's contributions to football are monumental: he won two NFL championships as a head coach and one as a player, and he was also the first professional football player to have his number retired. Given the illustrious legacy associated with the number, the decision to allow Nabers to wear it is a noteworthy event.
In recent statements, Giants president John Mara reflected on the educational opportunity this reissue presents. "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," Mara said.
Ray Flaherty’s son, Ray Flaherty Jr., also addressed the significance of this gesture, assuring fans that the jersey will return to its retired status once Nabers' career with the Giants ends. "The number will be ‘re-retired if you will’ once Nabers' Giants career concludes," he stated.
Nabers, who was a standout player at LSU, has expressed his gratitude and understanding of the honor. “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.” These words from Nabers underscore his readiness to embrace the legacy tied to the number.
Nabers’ collegiate record is nothing short of impressive. In 2023, he earned unanimous All-American honors at LSU, catching 89 passes for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns. His time at LSU also saw him set records for the most receptions (189) and receiving yards (3,003) in the school's history. Such achievements set a promising tone for his career with the Giants.
The journey of Malik Nabers with the No. 1 jersey extends beyond just a numerical change—it’s a bridge between generations of football greatness. As Giants fans anticipate the upcoming season, they will not only watch a promising rookie make his debut but also re-engage with the rich history that shapes their beloved team's legacy. The Giants have turned what might have been a routine rookie announcement into a moment that reverberates through the annals of their storied franchise.