Patriots Legend Calls Out Top-Five Draft Pick For ‘Crazy’ Request

Abdul Carter didn’t tread lightly into the Giants organization.

Almost immediately after New York selected Carter third overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, the talented pass-rusher asked permission from Lawrence Taylor to wear the No. 56 that the Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker made famous in the Meadowlands. Taylor turned down the request while showing support for Carter to chart his own path with the G-Men.

Rob Gronkowski couldn’t believe the Penn State product made such a bold request before even officially signing his first NFL contract.

“Was he serious asking for LT’s number? Yeah, you’re a high draft pick, but LT is an absolute legend,” Gronkowski said on the “Dudes on Dudes” podcast. “One of the best defenders of all time. Let me tell you, brother. You have to prove yourself. That’s crazy, asking for LT’s number. I’m glad LT shut him down like that.”

The ever-confident Carter wasn’t discouraged by Taylor’s rejection. In a since-deleted social media post, the 21-year-old stressed that he still views Taylor as the “GOAT” and the denial would make him “work even harder.”