The Giants completed a notable first round in the NFL Draft with two significant moves. New York traded up late in the first round to select Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, after taking Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter with their initial selection.
Carter has generated controversy by requesting Giants legend Lawrence Taylor’s retired No. 56 jersey.
Taylor immediately rejected the request.
“Get another number,” Taylor said. “I don’t care if it’s double zero, and then make it famous.”
Former Patriots and Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski defended Taylor while criticizing Carter’s request.
“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 best defenders of all time… like, you gotta prove yourself. That’s crazy just asking for LT’s number and I’m glad that LT shut him down like that,” Gronkowski said.
Giants Hall of Fame quarterback Phil Simms also denied Carter’s request.
On Monday, Fox Sports host Colin Cowherd became the latest media figure to address the situation, focusing on Carter’s judgment.
“Young people, row your own boat, create your legacy, don’t be asking for retired guys’ jerseys. … Just asking is a lack of self-awareness,” Cowherd said on air.
Carter, who has yet to play his first NFL snap, remains without an assigned jersey number as the criticism continues.
