Phil Simms' No. 11 Remains Retired by Giants

New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter, drafted third overall, initially hoped to wear Lawrence Taylor’s retired No. 56 but was told by Taylor to forge his own legacy. Carter then pursued Phil Simms’ retired No. 11, and although Simms publicly supported the idea, his family ultimately voted against unretiring the number, so it will remain retired. Carter graciously accepted the decision and will select a different jersey number as he seeks to build his own reputation in New York. The situation has reignited debate about the significance and permanence of retired numbers in the NFL. Last season, the Giants unretired Ray Flaherty’s No. 1 for Malik Nabers, but exceptions will not be made for Simms and Taylor. Carter is expected to play a major role for the Giants this season.