On his first day, Abdul Carter sported Jersey 51.
Numbers 56 and 11 are still retired for Laurence Taylor and Phil Simms, respectively, so those were off the table.
“It feels good,” Carter shared after the Giants kicked off their Rookie Minicamp on Friday. “I think I need to grow a bit, but I’m feeling good right now.”
Selected as the third overall pick in the NFL Draft, Carter approached Taylor about donning No. 56, only to find it wasn’t available. Taylor encouraged him to make his own number memorable instead.
Initially, Carter wore No. 11, a legacy jersey in Pennsylvania, and Simms consented to his number being worn again. Carter expressed his honor in wearing it.
So, why did he ultimately choose 51?
“There weren’t many options left,” he explained. “I think it’s a solid number.”
Though 51 isn’t set in stone for Carter, he mentioned, “It’s pretty much decided. I’m just thrilled to be here playing football—that’s my main concern.”
This sentiment mirrored Manager Brian Dabour’s priorities. “Yeah, he’ll wear 51,” Dabour remarked, expressing more concern over player performance than the jersey number.
Running back Kamskattebo donned No. 44 in his first Giants Camp appearance, having worn No. 4 back in Arizona but feeling less excited about the double fours.
“This is what I’m focused on now,” Kamskattebo commented. “I understand this is a temporary number. We’ll see how things shape up as the season progresses.”
Quarterback Jackson Dart wore No. 2 at Ole Miss, but cornerback Deonte Banks has now taken that number, while Dart showcased No. 6 in his initial practice with the Giants.
“I think we’ll finalize our decisions soon,” Dart said. “To be honest, I need to check the photos to see how we all look together.”
Three draft picks have officially signed rookie contracts: OL Marcus Mbow (fifth round), TE Thomas Fidone (seventh round), and DB Korie Black (seventh round). To make room on the roster, the Giants released WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey two months after he signed a one-year deal worth $1.24 million. There’s a chance he could be re-signed by Monday. They may also consider adding WR Gabe Davis, who was recently let go by the Jaguars.
Former Giants star Michael Strahan observed the practice and later spoke to the team. “It’s surreal to be here on the first day, watching the practice. Seeing them enjoy their rookie moments is just amazing,” he remarked.
