Considering the New York Giants are not married to the idea of selecting a quarterback at No. 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, intense interest in Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter could potentially be a sign of things to come later this month.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Monday that Giants head coach Brian Daboll had breakfast with Carter on Sunday in State College, PA. It appears to be just an appetizer, as Carter will visit Big Blue’s facilities on Thursday.
For a team rife with holes in its roster, Carter provides the potential of star power for a defense that could suddenly be teeming with pass-rushing prowess. Kayvon Thibodeaux was joined by Brian Bruns last season — two edge rushers that would suddenly team up with its finest talent yet should Carter be the pick of the Giants at No. 3.
The 21-year-old is coming off a brilliant season with the Nittany Lions, winning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and All-American honors. In 16 games, he amassed 12 sacks with an NCAA Division I-leading 24 tackles for loss.
There is some uncertainty surrounding the explosive talent, though. He injured his arm and shoulder during the College Football Playoff and did not participate in any on-field activities at the Combine or Penn State’s Pro Day.
Regardless, Carter has continued to implore that he should not just be a top-three pick, but the No. 1 overall pick — a selection the Tennessee Titans more likely than not will use to take Miami quarterback Cam Ward.
“I think just my overall impact on the game,” Carter said as to why he should be the top pick. “My versatility. I can play multiple positions, and I feel like most importantly I step up when I’m needed the most when crunch time comes around. When you need somebody to make that big play, I feel like I’m the guy who makes that big play.”
