Edge
Junior (now in NFL)
Abdul Carter completed his Penn State career in 2024 as the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and unanimous All-American. After his standout junior season, he declared for the 2025 NFL Draft and was selected by the New York Giants with the 3rd overall pick on April 24, 2025. He signed his four-year rookie contract and is now in his first NFL season.
Abdul Carter is an explosive edge rusher who became the 2024 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a unanimous All-American. Born January 2, 2004, in Philadelphia, Carter transformed from linebacker to elite pass rusher in 2024, becoming the first Nittany Lion to post 10+ sacks in a season since Carl Nassib in 2015. In 2024, he started all 16 games and finished with 68 tackles (43 solo), 23.5 tackles for loss, and 12.0 sacks, along with two forced fumbles and four pass breakups. He became Penn State's 15th Unanimous Consensus All-American, first since Saquon Barkley in 2017. After his junior season, Carter declared for the 2025 NFL Draft and was selected by the New York Giants with the 3rd overall pick.
Abdul Carter was selected third overall by the New York Giants in the 2025 NFL Draft and signed a fully guaranteed rookie contract after a decorated Penn State career.
Read MoreTyler Warren became a Pro Bowl rookie tight end for the Colts, while Abdul Carter produced 43 tackles, four sacks, and two forced fumbles for the Giants. This update keeps the comparison tied to public stats.
Read MorePenn State cannot replace Abdul Carter one-for-one. The 2026 defense has to rebuild pressure, nickel communication, and front-seven roles with the current roster.
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