Ray Flaherty’s Iconic Number Returns to the Field After Nearly 90 Years
In a move that bridges the past and present, the New York Giants have reactivated the No. 1 jersey for their promising rookie wide receiver, Malik Nabers. This will be the first time the number has been worn since 1935, when it was retired to honor Hall of Famer Ray Flaherty, making it the first jersey to be retired in professional football history. Nabers, selected sixth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, initially donned No. 9 during training camp, but with that number already taken, he sought a new identity on the field. His request to don the No. 1 jersey prompted discussions between Giants President John Mara and the Flaherty family, who eventually agreed to let Nabers wear the historic number.”I am deeply honored to wear the No. 1 jersey,” said Nabers. “I understand the legacy attached to this number and will wear it with the utmost respect for Ray Flaherty and the Giants organization.”
The Flaherty family, initially hesitant, decided to grant Nabers’ request after recognizing the opportunity to reintroduce Ray Flaherty’s legacy to a new generation of Giants fans. Flaherty’s son, Ray Flaherty Jr., expressed his support, acknowledging that while the decision was not easy, it felt right to let the number live on through Nabers.
John Mara emphasized the significance of this decision, stating that the number would be re-retired after Nabers’ career, ensuring that Flaherty’s legacy remains intact.
The Giants are set to begin their season on September 8, with Nabers proudly wearing No. 1 against the Minnesota Vikings, marking a new chapter in the storied history of the New York Giants.
