J.J. McCarthy will wear No. 18 for the New York Giants after discovering his preferred No. 9 was already taken by tight end Isaiah Likely. The quarterback, who has sported No. 9 throughout his time with the Minnesota Vikings and the University of Michigan, opted not to negotiate a number swap with Likely, one of the Giants’ top offensive players.
The Giants officially list McCarthy as No. 18 on their roster, confirming the change. ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted the update on September 29, 2026, noting the switch from McCarthy’s familiar digit to a new one.
McCarthy’s attachment to No. 9 went beyond just a jersey number. He developed an alter ego named "Nine," a persona he invoked on game days to elevate his performance. The nickname, tied to his former number, underlined how important No. 9 was to him. With his move to No. 18, McCarthy faces a change not only in number but in the identity he has shaped for himself.
The decision to select No. 18 likely reflects a pragmatic approach. While players sometimes negotiate for their preferred numbers, McCarthy may not have had enough leverage as a newcomer to the Giants to request Likely relinquish the No. 9. Isaiah Likely, acquired by the Giants during the offseason, has firmly claimed the number, and McCarthy’s choice avoids any potential conflict.
The number 18 is double the 9, which could offer some symbolic continuity for McCarthy, even if it doesn’t directly match his alter ego’s name. The quarterback is entering his third NFL season, and this switch is among several changes he is experiencing as he adapts to a new team environment.
McCarthy's journey began with the Vikings, where he wore No. 9, and he continued that tradition at Michigan. His move to the Giants follows the recent trade that connects to the ongoing overlap between the Harbaugh brothers in the NFL. The number change is a small but telling part of his broader transition.
For now, the Giants’ official website confirms McCarthy will don No. 18 as he prepares for his debut with the team. The new number will be his on-field identity as he seeks to establish himself in New York’s offense.
According to Yahoo Sports.