The number 26 is a special one in Coral Gables.

It’s been worn by several Canes in recent years, but was most-notably donned by the late, great defensive back Sean Taylor.

On Friday morning, Mario Cristobal told reporters that a player asked to wear No. 26 this season, but that request was denied. He stopped short of saying the Canes would retire the number, but did say it should be “honored.”

Cristobal did indicate that wearing the No. 26 would be something that players could earn as a way to honor the number.

Taylor was tragically killed in 2007 during a home invasion.

The number 26 was most recently worn by safety Gurvan Hall Jr. in 2020.

Taylor’s 2003 campaign was one of the best in Miami history for a defensive back. He picked off 10 passes and scored 3 touchdowns while leading the Canes to an 11-2 record and the Big East title. Miami also won the Orange Bowl that season, defeating Florida State. Taylor picked off a pass from Chris Rix in the win.

He was picked No. 5 overall by Washington in the 2004 NFL Draft.