Former New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski remains one of the most recognizable figures in NFL history. Known for his outspoken personality, Gronk has appeared across various media platforms to share his insights on the league and its players. This time, he weighed in on a surprising request made by New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter shortly after the draft.
Carter, a first-round pick, is one of the most anticipated prospects heading into the 2025 NFL season. With the Giants looking to bounce back and make a playoff push, the linebacker is expected to play a key role in the team’s turnaround efforts.
Although the season doesn’t kick off until September, Carter has already made headlines. The newly drafted defender reportedly asked the Giants, and franchise legend Lawrence Taylor, if he could wear Taylor’s retired jersey number. The request sparked immediate backlash, given the iconic status of LT’s No. 56.
Gronkowski didn’t hold back when addressing the situation. “Was he serious, asking for LT’s number? Yeah, you were a high draft pick, but LT is an absolute legend. The best to do it—one of the greatest defenders of all time. You’ve got to prove yourself. That’s crazy, just asking for LT’s number. I’m glad LT shut him down like that,” Gronkowski said on his podcast, Dudes On Dudes.
Giants rookie Carter denied permission to wear Phil Simms’ retired number
In addition to requesting Lawrence Taylor’s iconic No. 56, Giants rookie Abdul Carter reportedly went a step further, asking permission to wear another legendary number. According to multiple sources, Carter also approached the family of franchise icon Phil Simms to request No. 11. The response was firm: that number is off-limits.
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Although Simms was said to be “honored” by the request, his family declined, suggesting that Carter choose from other available numbers as he begins his NFL journey. The family’s decision underscores the deep respect still held for the retired quarterback’s legacy in New York.
That means Carter will need to pivot. With both No. 56 and No. 11 unavailable, the former Penn State linebacker, who wore 11 in college, will have to select a new jersey number as he kicks off his professional career with the Giants.
Carter reflects on dream come true after being drafted by the Giants
After being selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Carter shared his emotions about joining the Giants. He spoke about a childhood dream finally coming true and the sense of responsibility he now carries as part of the storied franchise.
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Should Carter push for retired jersey numbers to return with the Giants?
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“This is a fun fact: As a kid, I had a dream that I got drafted to the Giants. This is surreal right now, and I celebrated this moment with my family. Coming from Penn State, I understand what it means to be part of a great franchise, and I just want to become one of the best players in the game,“ Carter told reporters.
