New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers, a highly anticipated rookie, surprised fans and teammates alike during a recent press conference by announcing that he will not be wearing his expected No. 9 jersey. Instead, Nabers will be donning the iconic No. 1 jersey, previously worn by franchise legend Ray Flaherty.
The Giants organization made the official announcement on Wednesday, revealing the decision to un-retire the historical No. 1 jersey for Nabers. This jersey holds significant meaning, as it was the first ever retired in professional football, honoring Flaherty’s pivotal role in securing the NFL championship for the Giants in the 1934 season.
In response to the jersey change, Nabers expressed his gratitude to the Flaherty family for allowing him to wear the revered No. 1 for the team. “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. I can’t wait to start the season,” Nabers shared in a statement released by the Giants.
Selected as the No. 6 pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft, Nabers is poised to make a significant impact as the second wide receiver taken and the earliest wide receiver draft pick in Giants history. The team’s decision to un-retire the No. 1 jersey for him serves as a testament to their confidence in his abilities and potential contributions to the team.
As Nabers prepares for his rookie season with the Giants, all eyes will be on him as he strives to live up to the legacy of the legendary Ray Flaherty and make a name for himself in the world of professional football.
