Updated March 20, 2026, 11:47 a.m. ET
New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter is changing his jersey number once again, this time to No. 3 for the 2026 season. The team made the announcement official via social media on Friday.
Carter was the third overall selection in the 2025 NFL draft out of Penn State. As a rookie, he wore No. 51 and posted four sacks along with 43 total tackles.
The number switch continues a saga that started right after the draft. Carter first tried to claim No. 56, but it is retired for Giants legend Lawrence Taylor. He then pushed for No. 11, his college number that is retired for Phil Simms. However, the Simms family objected, forcing him to choose 51.
The No. 3 jersey was previously worn by quarterback Russell Wilson, who is a free agent and will not be back with the Giants. Carter never seemed to fully embrace 51, so this change offers a clean slate entering his second year.
Fans are buzzing about the update, eager to see the young star in his new uniform during the upcoming campaign.
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