Football History

The New York Giants, one of the NFL's most storied franchises, boast a rich history filled with remarkable players and unforgettable moments. Central to this legacy are the retired jersey numbers that honor the exceptional contributions of some of the greatest athletes to ever wear a Giants uniform. Each of these numbers represents not just a player, but a chapter in the team's history, reflecting the skill, dedication, and leadership that have defined the Giants' success over the decades.

In this series of posts, we will delve into the significance of each retired number, exploring the careers and achievements of the legendary players they represent. From the stalwart linemen who anchored the Giants’ defenses to the dynamic quarterbacks and fearless wide receivers who electrified the crowd, each jersey number retired by the franchise tells a story of excellence and heroism.

We will examine the key moments and contributions of these iconic figures, shedding light on how their performances helped shape the Giants' identity and their storied tradition of winning. Additionally, we'll provide insight into the impact these players had on the game itself, influencing not only their team but also the NFL at large.

Join us as we celebrate the heroes of Giants' history through the numbers that have become symbols of greatness. This series will offer a deeper appreciation for the individuals who have elevated the franchise and left an indelible mark on the sport of football.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 1
Ray Flaherty 1928–1935

-Jersey Number 4
Tuffy Leemans 1936–1943

-Jersey Number 7
Mel Hein 1931–1945

-Jersey Number 10
Eli Manning 2004–2019

-Jersey Number 11
Phil Simms 1979–1993

-Jersey Number 14
Ward Cuff 1937–1945
Y. A. Tittle 1961–1964

-Jersey Number 16
Frank Gifford 1952–1964

-Jersey Number 32
Al Blozis 1942–1944

-Jersey Number 40
Joe Morrison 1959–1972

-Jersey Number 42
Charlie Conerly 1948–1961

-Jersey Number 50
Ken Strong 1936–1947

-Jersey Number 56
Lawrence Taylor 1981–1993

-Jersey Number 92
Michael Strahan 1993–2007

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

The Tennessee Titans boast a rich history filled with iconic players whose contributions have left an enduring legacy. A testament to their greatness is the team's tradition of retiring jersey numbers, a sacred honor bestowed upon only the most exceptional athletes. This post delves into the Titans' retired numbers, exploring the players behind them and the ways the team commemorates their extraordinary careers. From the hallowed halls of Nissan Stadium to the hearts of fans, these numbers are more than just digits – they are symbols of Titans pride and excellence.

Here are the Jersey Numbers the team has taken out of circulation to honor their legends:

-Jersey Number 1
Warren Moon 1984–1993

-Jersey Number 9
Steve McNair 1995–2005

-Jersey Number 27
Eddie George 1996–2003

-Jersey Number 34
Earl Campbell 1978–1984

-Jersey Number 43
Jim Norton 1960–1968

-Jersey Number 63
Mike Munchak 1982–1993

-Jersey Number 65
Elvin Bethea 1968–1983

-Jersey Number 74
Bruce Matthews 1983–2001

In the NFL, jersey numbers carry weight. They embody legacies, ignite memories, and become synonymous with the players who proudly wore them. And what number could be more symbolic than #1? The lone star, the top dog, and the In the NFL, jersey numbers hold significant value as they signify legacies, evoke memories, and become synonymous with players who proudly wore them. Among all, the number 1 has a special place. It represents the lone star, the top dog, the pack leader, and demands greatness. But who among the NFL players wore it best?

Image courtesy of Google Bard

We're about to embark on a journey through the annals of NFL history, unearthing the stories of the most iconic players who dared to don the number 1. From quarterbacks slinging lasers to defenders shutting down offenses, this list promises a diverse group of talents who left their mark on the gridiron.

Born April 9, 1898, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, was Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach Curly Lambeau. Lambeau, along with his friend and fellow Green Bay, Wisconsin native George Whitney Calhoun, founded the Green Bay Packers in 1919, serving as team captain in the team's first year before becoming player-coach in 1920.

Curly was the star player of the Packers in the 1920s, as Curly was the team's primary runner and passer, accounting for 35 touchdowns in 77 games. He won his only NFL championship as a player in 1929.

As a coach from 1920 through the 1949 season, he was rivaled by only George Halas in wins and longevity ( and later Bill Belichick.) Lambeau also coached eight players who went on to be elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Warren Moon's professional football career transcended expectations and shattered barriers. While overlooked in the NFL draft, he carved a legendary path, shining not just for 17 seasons but for 23, including his dominant years in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Moon's journey began with the Edmonton Eskimos, where he led them to five Grey Cup championships, earning MVP honors multiple times. His exceptional talent finally gained NFL recognition in 1984, joining the Houston Oilers. There, he blossomed into a star, showcasing his pinpoint accuracy, mobility, and leadership. He earned Offensive Player of the Year in 1990, shattering NFL passing records and leading the league in both yards and touchdowns.

Despite never reaching the Super Bowl, Moon's impact resonates deeply.

Warren Moon basics:

Born November 18, 1956 in Los Angeles, California

In college Moon attended West Los Angeles College and later played for the Washington Huskies.

-Inducted as Player in 2006 Pro Football Hall of Fame

-Nine-time Pro Bowler

-1990 AP Offensive Player of the Year

-1990 UPI Offensive Player of the Year

-1989 Walter Payton Man of the Year

---

Benny Friedman, born March 18, 1905, wasn't your typical football player. In an era dominated by ground-and-pound offenses, Friedman emerged as a passing prodigy, forever changing the game's landscape. This essay explores his remarkable career, highlighting his impact on the sport and his legacy as a true gridiron innovator.

We continue with the story of the New York Football Giants in this sixth part of our celebratory series on the franchise's first 100 seasons.

The gridiron experience for young Benjamin started negatively when his high school coach in Cleveland, Ohio, looked at the 5'-6 ", 150-pound youngster and informed him that he would never be able to play football due to his size. Friedman transferred to a neighboring school to pursue his sports dreams and thrived playing football, baseball, and basketball. Benny helped his new alma mater even win the 1922 City Gridiron Championship!

-Early Life and Aspiring Gridiron Career

His scholastic feats did not go unnoticed as Friedman was enrolled at the University of Michigan by the following fall, playing on the Freshman team. When eligible to play varsity, he was a reserve and witnessed a thumping the Wolverines took at the hands of a Red Grange-led Illinois eleven. Michigan Coach George Little shook the starting lineup a bit after this defeat and inserted Benny as the starting right halfback.

Friedman's brilliance shone brightly at the University of Michigan. Playing quarterback and halfback, he defied the run-heavy strategies of the time. Unlike most teams, his exceptional throwing ability and innovative playcalling, calling plays from the line of scrimmage, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. By the time the opening game of the 1925 season, Friedman's Junior year, the rising star accounted for all three of Michigan's touchdowns, two long pass plays, and a 26-yard run to the goal line in a 21-0 throttling of rival Wisconsin. With Benny leading the way, the Wolverines captured at least a share of the Big Ten Conference title in consecutive seasons. He earned All-American honors twice and was a significant factor in leading Michigan to a dominant period.

Just before the 1927 football season, Friedman, who was now out of school, announced that he would be signing a contract to play with the Cleveland Bulldogs of the NFL. The Rookie started all 13 games for the Bulldogs, tossing a 50-yard TD pass in the opener, and led his hometown Cleveland eleven to a respectable 8-4-1 record. The franchise relocated and rebranded as the Detroit Wolverines the following season.

Again, Friedman led the League in passing with ten touchdowns for the second year. He also used his legs and led the NFL in rushing TDs, becoming the only player in League history to be at the top of both categories in a year. The Wolverines finished the year in third place at 7-2-1.

-Giant Aquisition

The 1927 World Champion New York Giants swept the entire League except for one team, the Friedman lead Bulldogs. In an interesting spin, the Giants had never beaten Benny Friedman. They were 0-2-2 against him and 0-1-1 against both the Cleveland Bulldogs and the Detroit Wolverines in their lifetime. Despite the success of the past two seasons with Benny, the Detroit franchise could have been a more stable financial venture; thus, the team only played one season as the Detroit Wolverines, as in 1929, they were absorbed into the New York Football Giants. Giants owner Tim Mara had seen enough and figured if he couldn't beat Friedman, he bought him and the rest of the Wolverines team.

Mara's foresight of Friedman being an elite player who could lead the Giants to better things was spot on. Friedman was the main reason the New York businessman bought the Wolverines franchise. Mara also figured that Benny would be a great draw at the gate, and Friedman quickly became the highest-paid NFL player when he inked his new contract with the Giants for an unprecedented $10,000 per season.

To put Benny's effectiveness and innovative style of play into perspective, it was in the fourth contest of the 1929 campaign (Friedman's third NFL season) that the signal-caller became the NFL's all-time career leader in touchdown passes. The milestone was significant as it would not be broken until 1943 by Sammy Baugh. The former Michigan star had transformed the forward pass from a third-down desperation tactic into an offensive attack method that could be deployed on any down.

We must remember that the footballs of that era had a more considerable girth than the modern pigskin. Friedman reportedly trained and stretched the fingers of his throwing hand to be strong enough to depress the leather with a wide grip. His secrets included carrying a rubber ball in his coat pocket that he continually worked over, and he would also practice manipulating his thumb and forefinger to be in a painfully stretching straight line for as long as he could hold it.

Benny played with the Giants through the 1930 season and then announced he would retire to focus on a coaching job he accepted at Yale. His schedule worked out that he would sign on with the Giants for the 1931 season and play nine games. In 1932, Friedman suited up for the Brooklyn Dodgers gridiron franchise as their player/coach for three more seasons before retiring from play.

-Friedman's NFL Legacy

Friedman's professional career, from 1927 to 1934, further solidified his reputation as a passing pioneer. He consistently led the League in passing touchdowns, shattering records and proving the effectiveness of the aerial attack. His success forced teams to adapt their defensive strategies, marking a turning point in the game's evolution. Many experts consider Benny Friedman the model for the modern quarterback, as his play changed the dynamics and expectations of the position.

The future Hall of Famer would continue coaching with the City College of New York, an assistant with the US Navy team during the Second World War, and finally, the Athletic Director at Brandeis University in Massachusetts.

-Beyond his passing prowess

Friedman was a complete player. He was a skilled kicker, an accurate passer, and an accomplished runner. This versatility made him a true offensive weapon, capable of attacking defenses in multiple ways. His durability was also impressive, as he played through a time when player safety wasn't a primary concern.

However, Friedman's career was challenging. He faced prejudice as the son of a Jewish immigrant, a rarity in professional football at the time. Additionally, injuries began to hamper his performance later in his career. Despite these obstacles, his impact on the game remains undeniable.

Benny Friedman's legacy extends beyond statistics and accolades, though his record-breaking achievements are worth noting. The stalwart was part of the inaugural 1953 College Football Hall of Fame class but was overlooked for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame until 2005, sadly some 23 years after he had passed away.

In conclusion, Benny Friedman was a trailblazer in professional football. His vision, combined with his exceptional talent, helped usher in a new era of offensive football. More importantly, he revolutionized the quarterback position, demonstrating the power of the forward pass. He paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks who would dominate the game with their aerial attacks. His legacy lives on in the thrilling passing games we witness today, a testament to the impact of a Jewish kid from Cleveland who dared to be different.

---

Born January 27, 1894, Fritz Pollard wasn't just a football player; he was a trailblazer, a symbol of defiance, and a testament to the power of athletic excellence to challenge societal norms.

Born in 1894, Pollard excelled in athletics from a young age. His exceptional speed and agility landed him at Brown University, where he shattered racial barriers as the first African American to play for the school's prestigious football team. He led the Ivy League in scoring in 1916, silencing critics and proving his undeniable talent. Fritz played halfback on the Brown team that went to the 1916 Rose Bowl.

Pollard's on-field prowess was undeniable. He led the teams that he played for to heights. The Akron Pros, Union Club of Phoenixville, Milwaukee Badgers, Hammond Pros, Providence Steam Roller, and Akron Indians dazzled audiences with dazzling runs and electrifying touchdowns. His talent forced NFL teams to confront their racial prejudices with the integration of black players into the league in the early 1920s, which would be interrupted for decades after he hung up his cleats.

Though facing discrimination and prejudice throughout his career, Pollard persevered. He played for several NFL teams, becoming the league's first black head coach with the Akron Pros in 1928. His influence extended beyond the playing field; he mentored and advocated for future generations of black athletes, encouraging them to break through barriers and pursue their dreams.

Beyond individual accolades, Pollard became a crucial figure in the fight for racial equality in sports. In the 1930s, he coached the all-black "Brown Bombers," the standout professional football team. The Bombers challenged established leagues and showcased the talents of black players who were systematically excluded from mainstream professional sports.

Although his playing career ended in the early 1930s, Pollard's legacy continues to inspire. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, and his contributions were finally recognized on the grandest stages.

Career history

-As a player:

-Akron Pros (1920–1921)

-Union Club of Phoenixville (1920)

-Milwaukee Badgers (1922)

-Gilberton Cadamounts (1923–1924)

-Hammond Pros (1923, 1925)

-Providence Steamrollers (1925)

-Akron Indians (1925–1926)

-As a coach:

-Lincoln (PA) (1918–1920)

-Akron Pros (1921)

-Hammond Pros (1925)

-Chicago Black Hawks (1928)

-Career highlights and awards

-NFL champion (1920)

-First-team All-Pro (1920)

-Consensus All-American (1916)

-Career NFL statistics

-Rushing touchdowns: 16

-Receiving touchdowns: 2

-Total touchdowns: 18

Stats courtesy Pro Football Reference

Fritz Pollard. (2025, January 14). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fritz_Pollard

---

Benny Friedman, a man deemed 'too small' for the NFL, defied all odds with his exceptional talent and revolutionary style of play. Standing at a mere 5'9", he wasn't supposed to be a good NFL player. Yet, his career, spanning the late 1920s and early 1930s, was a pivotal moment in NFL history, pushing the league toward the pass-heavy game we know today.

New York-based football historian Larry Schmitt shared some great insight with us in the video. Learn more about Giants history by Larry and the rest of the NYG experts at Big Blue Interactive.

Before Friedman, professional football was a run-dominated sport. The forward pass was a risky tactic that was rarely used. However, with his pinpoint accuracy and deceptive throws, Friedman showcased the potential of a solid passing offense. He led the league in passing touchdowns for four consecutive years (1927-1930) and even achieved the remarkable feat of leading the league in rushing and passing touchdowns in 1928.

Guest Larry Schmitt even has research that indicates Friedman may have been the first 300-yard passer in NFL history. According to Schmitt, the NFL records show that the official first 300-yard passing game in the NFL was 12/5/37 by Pat Coffee of the Chicago Cardinals in a game they lost to the Bears.

Also, the "books show" that Paul Governalli's first official 300-yard passing game for the Giants was on 11/9/47 in a loss to the Eagles.

But Larry has found proof that both of these were trumped, with Larry finding evidence that it was Benny Friedman in 1930 that hit the milestone.!

Friedman's impact was not just about his statistics. His success as a passer forced rule changes, opening up the passing game and making it a more viable option for teams. His electrifying play style drew in fans, boosting the popularity of the struggling NFL. This was especially significant as Friedman was Jewish, becoming a hero for Jewish communities across America and challenging stereotypes about Jewish athleticism.

However, Friedman's career was challenging. Injuries hampered his later seasons, and the lack of official passing statistics during his prime makes it difficult to quantify his achievements fully. Nonetheless, his influence on the sport is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks who thrived on throwing the ball, forever altering the landscape of professional football.

Beyond his on-field dominance, Friedman's story resonates for its social impact. He shattered barriers and symbolized Jewish athletic prowess, inspiring countless young athletes.
Benny Friedman's legacy is multifaceted. He was a game-changing quarterback, a cultural icon, and a pioneer of the modern NFL. His impact on the sport lives on every time a quarterback steps back to unleash a spiral downfield.

The dual-threat quarterback Kyler Murray was born August 7, 1997, in Bedford, Texas. Kyler Murray's journey to NFL stardom was anything but conventional. His exceptional athletic abilities were evident from a young age, leading him to excel in both football and baseball.

His ultimate decision to pursue football, while initially surprising to some, has proven to be a resounding success.

-College Career

Murray's college career began at Texas A&M University, where he played one season before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. His time with the Sooners was nothing short of spectacular. In his lone season as the starting quarterback (2018), he led Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. His dual-threat ability, combining a strong arm with exceptional speed and elusiveness, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Heisman Trophy voters recognized his incredible season, awarding him the coveted trophy, solidifying his place among college football's elite.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Despite his baseball prowess, Murray declared his intention to pursue a career in the NFL. This decision set the stage for a unique draft scenario, as he was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. Ultimately, the Arizona Cardinals selected him with the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, making him the first player ever drafted in the first round of both the NFL and MLB drafts.  

-Football Legacy

Murray's impact on the NFL has been immediate and significant. His dynamic playmaking ability has revitalized the Cardinals' offense, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. His presence has forced defenses to adapt, showcasing the evolution of the quarterback position in the modern NFL. While still early in his professional career, Murray has already established himself as a star and a cornerstone of the Cardinals franchise.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy (2018)  

-AP Player of the Year (2018)  

-Davey O'Brien Award (2018)  

-Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2018)  

Kyler Murray's legacy is still being written. His electrifying play and his dedication to the game of football have made him a fan favorite and a player to watch for years to come. His unique path, navigating the worlds of both football and baseball, has added an intriguing chapter to his story. As he continues to grow and develop as a professional quarterback, Murray has the potential to achieve even greater heights and solidify his place among the NFL's best.

Born December 1, 1986, DeSean Jackson's electrifying playmaking ability made him one of college and professional football's most exciting wide receivers. His impact extended beyond highlight-reel catches, leaving a lasting legacy on the game.  

Jackson's college career at the University of California, Berkeley, showcased his explosive talent. From 2005 to 2007, he dazzled fans with his speed, agility, and knack for finding the end zone. He earned All-American honors and set numerous school records, establishing himself as one of the most prolific receivers in Pac-10 history. His time at Cal solidified his status as a top prospect for the NFL.  

The road to the pros saw Jackson drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. His impact was immediate. As a rookie, he quickly became a fan favorite with his game-breaking speed and big-play ability. He formed a dynamic duo with quarterback Donovan McNabb, helping the Eagles reach the NFC Championship Game. Jackson's ability to stretch the field and score from anywhere made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.  

Jackson's football legacy is defined by his game-changing speed and his ability to consistently make big plays. He was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, and his presence on the field forced defenses to account for his deep-threat ability. He was a key part of the Eagles' offense for many years, and he also had productive stints with the Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Los Angeles Rams. His career spanned 15 seasons, and he remained a dangerous weapon even as he got older.  

Throughout his career, Jackson accumulated impressive accolades and statistics.

He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2010s. He finished his career with over 11,000 receiving yards and 59 touchdowns. His average of 17.7 yards per reception is the highest in NFL history among players with at least 500 receptions, a testament to his explosive playmaking ability.  

DeSean Jackson's impact on football is undeniable. He was a game-changer who redefined the role of the deep-threat receiver. His electrifying play captivated fans and inspired a generation of players. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most exciting and dynamic players in NFL history.