The buzz, smokescreens, and drama have ended, and the New York Giants have made a bold statement by selecting Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night at Lambeau Field. Carter, a player many regard as a generational talent, is expected to bolster a Giants defense that already features standout pass rushers like Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns.
Carter’s selection comes after a stellar 2024 season at Penn State, where he recorded 12 sacks and led the nation with 23.5 tackles for loss. His performance not only earned him the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award but also made him a unanimous All-American. At 6-foot-3 and weighing 250 pounds, Carter’s explosive speed and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are under pressure to improve the Giants’ performance in 2025, and adding Carter is seen as a significant step in that direction. "Kayvon is going to be here. You can't have enough pass rushers," Schoen stated, confirming the decision to exercise Thibodeaux's fifth-year option, which adds further strength to their defensive front.
With Carter joining the likes of Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence, and Burns, the Giants now boast one of the most formidable defensive lines in the NFL. The team’s defensive identity has been a work in progress since Daboll took over in 2022, but Carter’s addition could solidify their reputation as a dominant defensive unit.
During the draft process, Carter expressed his determination and eagerness to prove himself in the NFL. "I feel like I’m just getting started. This is my first year of playing a new position and I feel like I was the best at it. I dominated at it. The sky is the limit for me. I really feel limitless. I’m just getting started," he said at Penn State’s pro day. His confidence and potential make him an exciting prospect for the Giants.
Carter’s journey to the NFL has not been without challenges. He suffered a shoulder injury in the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State on New Year’s Eve, which kept him from participating in the NFL combine and Penn State’s pro day. However, his draft stock remained high, and he was projected as a top-five pick following his transition from linebacker to defensive end.
In his junior season at Penn State, Carter not only excelled in pass rushing but also proved to be effective against the run, showcasing his versatility on the field. His ability to disrupt both passing and running plays makes him a valuable asset for the Giants as they look to enhance their overall defensive strategy.
The Giants’ decision to draft Carter comes after significant speculation about their choice, with many analysts predicting they might select a quarterback, particularly after Cam Ward went No. 1 overall to the Tennessee Titans. However, the Giants opted for Carter, a move that reflects their commitment to fortifying their defense.
The selection of Carter marks the highest a Penn State player has been drafted since Saquon Barkley was taken No. 2 overall in 2018. This trend of producing high-caliber talent from Penn State continues, as Carter follows in the footsteps of fellow Nittany Lion Chop Robinson, who was selected 21st overall by the Miami Dolphins in the 2024 draft.
As the Giants prepare for the upcoming season, the combination of Carter, Thibodeaux, and Lawrence could create a dynamic defensive front that not only aims to pressure opposing quarterbacks but also support a young offense that may need to rely on its defense to win games.
With Carter’s arrival, the Giants are looking to recapture the defensive prowess that characterized their Super Bowl-winning teams of the past. The franchise has a storied history of success built on strong defensive performances, and the addition of Carter could signal a return to those glory days.
In the coming weeks, fans will be eager to see how Carter integrates with his new teammates and how the coaching staff plans to utilize his unique skill set. His ability to learn and adapt will be crucial as he transitions to the professional level, and expectations are high for the rookie to make an immediate impact.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Carter and the Giants’ defense. If they can harness his potential and combine it with the existing talent on the roster, the Giants may very well become a force to be reckoned with in the league.
In conclusion, the New York Giants have made a significant move by drafting Abdul Carter, a player who possesses the tools to transform their defense. With his combination of speed, strength, and skill, Carter is poised to become a key contributor as the Giants aim to improve their standing in the NFL.
