Lawrence Taylor came home to Giants Stadium one more time on Monday
night. Taylor, a linebacker many consider the most dominant defensive player in NFL history, had his No. 56 jersey retired by the New York Giants, the team he led to two Super Bowl victories in 13 seasons. The ceremony took place at halftime of the Giants' game against the Minnesota Vikings."I guess I should be nervous, but I'm not because this is my house," said Taylor, drawing a thunderous cheer from the crowd of 77,294. "This is one of the three proudest moments I've ever had here.
"The first came in 1981 when we beat Dallas to go to the playoff for the first time in 20 years," he said, the cheers growing with each memory.
"The second was in 1987 when we beat the Redskins to go to the Super Bowl, and the third is tonight."
Taylor, who donned the jersey when it was presented by Giants president Wellington Mara, became the eighth Giants player to have his number retired.
"I'd like to thank Mr. Mara and his family always being there for me, Mr. (chairman Robert) Tisch for the wisdom he has shown me over the last three years, and Bill Parcells for being such a big part of my life and showing me how to play this game," Taylor said.
The reference to Parcells, who coached the Giants to Super Bowl titles in 1986 and 1990, drew another loud roar from the partisan crowd.
"But this isn't about them," he said. "It's about me and you, the Giants fans. You have always believed in me and had faith in me no matter what has happened in my life. Without you there would be no Lawrence Taylor, no L.T."
Taylor retired last year second on the career sacks list with 1321/2. He set an NFL record by appearing in 10 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1981-90, and earlier this year was named to the NFL's 75th anniversary team.