Exciting changes are on the horizon for New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers. As the 2024 season approaches, Nabers is ditching his No. 9 jersey for the prestigious No. 1, a number that was previously retired in honor of Hall of Fame defensive end Ray Flaherty.
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The Giants announced this jersey change on Twitter/X, and Nabers expressed his gratitude: “Thank you to the Flaherty family for allowing me to wear Number 1 for the New York Giants. I understand the responsibility that comes with this, and I am committed to honoring both the Flaherty family and this organization. I can’t wait for the season to begin,” he said.
The Flaherty family gave their blessing for the number’s unretirement, allowing Nabers to wear it moving forward. Prior to this change, Nabers had sported No. 8 during his time at LSU and switched to No. 9 during training camp. His persistence in wanting to wear No. 1 led him to approach Giants’ general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll early in camp.
The decision-making process involved Giants president John Mara, who was clear about his conditions for granting Nabers the jersey. “We would allow that only if the Flaherty family was on board,” said Mara. He praised Nabers for his maturity and responsibility toward this honor.
Flaherty Jr. expressed a warm sentiment regarding Nabers’ call. “He seems like a fine young man,” he noted, appreciating the respect shown by the rookie. “It feels good to know he values the history of the team.” He also described the deliberations within the family, indicating they were pleased to give Nabers the opportunity to wear the iconic number.
Drafted sixth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Nabers aims to bring his skills to a new level, proudly donning the No. 1 jersey as he joins the Giants’ offensive lineup.
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