Rob Gronkowski criticizes Abdul Carter's jersey number requests

New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter stirred controversy by requesting to wear the retired jersey numbers of franchise legends Lawrence Taylor (No. 56) and Phil Simms (No. 11) shortly after being drafted. Both requests were firmly denied, with Taylor directly advising Carter to choose another number and make it famous himself. The moves drew criticism from NFL figures, notably Rob Gronkowski, who called Carter's requests disrespectful and emphasized that iconic numbers must be earned, not inherited. Simms was personally open to Carter wearing his number, but his family ultimately vetoed the idea. The situation has sparked widespread discussion about tradition, respect, and the expectations placed on rookies entering storied franchises. Carter has since acknowledged the rejections, expressing a desire to focus on playing football and proving himself on the field.