Harry Carson

Giants linebacker and Hall of Famer known for leadership and concussion advocacy.

Harry Donald Carson (born November 26, 1953) is an American former professional football player who spent his entire career as a linebacker for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). Carson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 and the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2018.

Quick Facts

Position: Linebacker
Born: 26 November 1953
Birthplace: Florence, South Carolina, U.S.
Draft year: 1976
Draft round: 4
Draft pick: 105
High school: Wilson (Florence)
College: South Carolina State (1972–1975)

Lore & Background

Carson was born in Florence, South Carolina, and graduated from McClenaghan High School. He attended South Carolina State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1976. He played college football for Willie Jeffries from 1972 to 1975, not missing a single game. He was the first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference player to win consecutive defensive player of the year honors and assisted the Bulldogs to consecutive conference championships. In 1975, he was a first-team selection on the AFCA College-Division All-America team and set school records with 117 tackles and 17 sacks. As captain, the Bulldogs defense recorded six shutouts in 1975 and held opponents to 29 points, an NCAA record for a ten-game season. Carson was drafted 105th overall in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL draft by the Giants. He spent all 13 seasons with them, leading the team in tackles for five seasons and serving as captain for ten. He was a member of the Crunch Bunch and the Big Blue Wrecking Crew defense, making nine Pro Bowl appearances (1978–1979, 1981–1987). He intercepted 11 passes for 212 yards, recovered 14 fumbles for 36 yards and one touchdown, and officially recorded eight quarterback sacks (19 when including 1976–1981). He retired after the 1988 season, two years after helping the Giants win Super Bowl XXI, with seven tackles in that game. Carson was one of the first practitioners of the 'Gatorade shower,' started by teammate Jim Burt in 1985. Bill Parcells had Carson at his side during the national anthem for good luck. Bill Belichick considered Carson the best all-around linebacker he ever coached. Carson was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 after previously asking to have his name removed from the ballot in 2004. In his Hall of Fame speech, he criticized the NFL for not doing enough for ex-players. He has been critical of the NFL's handling of head trauma and has suggested that kids not start playing football due to consequences later in life. After football, Carson remains involved with the Giants, has a career in sports broadcasting, owns Harry Carson Inc., and was part-owner of the Arena Football League's New Jersey Red Dogs. He co-hosts Giants 1st & 10 on MSG Network.

Reader's Guide

Harry Carson is a legendary Giants linebacker known for his leadership, durability, and role on the Crunch Bunch defense. He is also noted for his advocacy regarding concussions and player safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Harry Carson?

Harry Donald Carson was a professional football linebacker who spent his entire thirteen-season career with the New York Giants from 1976 to 1988. Born in Florence, South Carolina, he remains one of the most celebrated figures in franchise history.

How long did he serve as a leader?

Carson served as a team captain for ten years during his tenure in New York, establishing himself as a vocal and respected leader. This longevity highlights his commitment to leading the Giants through various eras of play.

What defensive units was he part of?

He played alongside teammates known collectively as the Crunch Bunch and the Big Blue Wrecking Crew defense. These groups were renowned for their aggressive style and ability to stop opposing offenses effectively.