Malik Nabers will wear the iconic No. 1 for the New York Giants, a number that holds the distinction of being the first retired in NFL history. This significant milestone comes as the franchise celebrates its 100th season, intertwining its legacy with that of the promising rookie wide receiver.
Nabers, selected sixth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft after an impressive career at LSU, has received the blessing from the family of Ray Flaherty, the former Giants star. Flaherty’s No. 1 was retired at the conclusion of the 1935 season, marking a historic moment in professional football.
In a heartfelt statement accompanying the announcement, Nabers expressed gratitude to Flaherty’s family. “I understand the responsibility that comes with this number, and I will do everything in my power to honor the Flaherty family and this organization,” he remarked. “I will wear the number with great pride and can’t wait for the season to start.”
Previously, Nabers donned No. 8 during his standout tenure at LSU and wore No. 9 during the preseason with the Giants, as No. 8 is currently worn by starting quarterback Daniel Jones.
Ray Flaherty, who later coached the Washington Commanders from 1936 to 1942, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in the history of the franchise. He passed away in 1994, nine years before Nabers was born in 2003.
During his final two seasons at LSU, Nabers surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each year, with a remarkable 2023 season where he accumulated 1,569 receiving yards. This impressive total ranked second in the entire FBS, trailing only fellow top-10 draft pick Rome Odunze. With his exceptional skills, Nabers is poised to become the leading receiver on the Giants’ roster.
