The New York Giants have high hopes for rookie Abdul Carter entering the first season of his career.
Even though the Giants already have two established starters at the edge rusher positions, Carter has been viewed as a blue-chip prospect ever since the pre-draft process began in January. His presence alongside Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux gives the Giants an even stronger unit.
How much playing time Carter will get right away remains to be seen, but he’s set to carve out a significant role pretty soon within Shane Bowen’s defense.
While rookies were left off Pete Prisco’s top-100 players list from CBS Sports, Carter is viewed as one of the top players to crack that list next offseason.
Opposing offenses will not be able to double team Dexter Lawrence, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Brian Burns and Carter. Someone is going to get one-on-one opportunities to rush the passer. Carter’s entire draft profile was built on cat-like quickness and improving strength. If he produces to the extent his No. 3 overall selection suggests, it will be difficult to keep him off next year’s list.
The No. 3 overall pick in the draft was joined by other top selections on the list, such as Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter and Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty.
Carter may begin his rookie season behind Burns and Thibodeaux, but it wouldn’t be a surprise at all if he quickly ate into some of the latter’s snaps as the season goes on. The Giants have a good problem in trying to figure out the pass-rush rotation, but Carter will need to get on the field.
After a strong spring, the Penn State product will look to continue his momentum into training camp and the preseason before the 2025 campaign arrives.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants’ Abdul Carter among rookies who should crack top-100 players list in 2026
Reporting by Kevin Hickey, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
