New York Giants' rookie Malik Nabers has been making waves since he was selected in the first round. Initially donning the No. 9 jersey during training camp and the preseason, it was clear he would have a number change for the regular season. The anticipation finally ended on Wednesday when the Giants announced that Nabers will wear the historic No. 1 jersey.
For the Giants, this is a momentous occasion. It will be the first time since 1935 that a Giants player will wear the No. 1 in a game. This number holds significant historical importance, having belonged to Ray Flaherty, a legendary figure who not only achieved greatness on the field but also made his mark as a head coach. Flaherty won two NFL championships as a head coach and one as a player, cementing his legacy in the professional football world. Remarkably, he was the first professional football player to have his number retired. This revered status of the No. 1 jersey gives Nabers a unique honor and immense responsibility.
Ray Flaherty Jr. emphasized the fleeting nature of Nabers' new jersey number, stating that it will be "re-retired if you will" once Nabers' Giants career concludes. This underscores the special nature of this temporary un-retirement, adding a layer of historical depth to Nabers’ debut season in the NFL.
A Legacy of Excellence
Malik Nabers’ college career at LSU showcased his talents as an elite wide receiver. In 2023, he earned unanimous All-American honors by catching 89 passes for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns. His impact at LSU was undeniable, and he leaves behind an impressive legacy with the most receptions (189) and receiving yards (3,003) in the program’s storied history.
Nabers didn't take his new jersey number lightly. He expressed his gratitude to the Flaherty family for the honor and the trust they placed in him. “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,” Nabers said. His words reflect a mature understanding of the illustrious history tied to the number and his own commitment to upholding that legacy.
A Nod to History
Giants president John Mara highlighted the unique educational opportunity this situation offers. "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. This sentiment captures the dual benefit of honoring a new athletic star while simultaneously paying homage to a Giants legend.
The reissue of No. 1 comes as part of the Giants' broader effort to connect their storied past with a promising future. Malik Nabers, with his stellar record and promising potential, seems perfectly poised to carry not just the number, but also the weight of its history, into new and exciting chapters of Giants football.
As the NFL season draws near, all eyes will be on Nabers and the No. 1 jersey. The anticipation is palpable, with fans eager to see how he will perform and uphold the significant legacy that comes with it. His performance will not only contribute to the team's success on the field but also serve as a living tribute to Ray Flaherty's lasting impact on the Giants' franchise.