Michael Strahan is already immortalized, but there was still something missing. The Pro Football Hall of Fame pass rusher could still view his beloved No. 92 running around on an NFL field following the end of his legendary career, but that will soon no longer be the case, with the New York Giants set to retire the number in 2021 -- the team announced Wednesday. For added oomph, the ceremony is scheduled to take place against an NFC East rival with the Giants hosting the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 28.
"Michael Strahan was one of the greatest players in franchise history," said owner John Mara, via the team's website. "He deserves to have his number retired as other Giants immortals have, including Mel Hein, Frank Gifford and Lawrence Taylor. Michael's career was defined by his achievements, his consistency and his leadership. Very few defensive ends played the position as well as Michael.
"He was a tremendous run defender as well as a great pass rusher. And he realized a goal every player aspires to but few achieve: winning a Super Bowl in his final game. We are grateful for all his contributions and are happy to officially say no Giants player will ever wear No. 92 again."
"Michael Strahan was a Hall of Fame player and he is a Hall of Fame person," added Chairman and Executive Vice President Steve Tisch. "Only the very best players get their jerseys retired and Michael is in that category in Giants history and NFL history, as well. He was the consummate defensive end, a team captain and a winner who helped lead us to the greatest victory in our history in Super Bowl XLII."
A second-round pick of the Giants in 1993, Strahan went on to become one of the best pass rushers to ever take a snap. He finished his career with a laundry list of honors -- topped by a victory in Super Bowl XLII -- that included seven Pro Bowl nods, six All-Pro honors and a spot on the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team. He finished his career with 141.5 sacks and still holds the NFL record for most sacks in a single season, when he racked up 22.5 in 2001, and has since been inducted into the Giants' coveted Ring of Honor and the Hall of Fame.
In having his number retired this season, Strahan has achieved the trifecta of NFL immortality.
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