With the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the New York Giants selected edge defender Abdul Carter from Penn State.
Height: 6' 3 3/4"
Weight: 250 lbs.
Hand: 9 ¾"
Arm: 33"
Wing: 79 ¼"
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pa.
High School: La Salle College
NFL.COM SCOUTING REPORT
- Strikes first to gain early advantage at point of attack.
- Too sudden to be stopped from B-gap penetration.
- Slips and parries blocks with footwork and hand swipes.
- Stride length and speed allow for expanded range as playmaker.
- Rush talent to spin the sack counter and alter protection schemes.
- No false steps or wasted motion in his rush get-off.
- Instinctive feel for passing tackle's edge with dip or hand work
- Agility for tight cornering and sharp change of direction.
- Wicked inside spin gives tackles the blues.
- Closing burst and athleticism make him hard to shake for quarterbacks.
- Urgency and athletic talent to bombard the stat sheet.
- Always first out and first into contact after the snap but can dart into gaps or around blocks as a penetrator.
- Willing to scrap at the point of attack
- Rushes with a rabid, all-game intensity that's hard for opponents to match.
- Explodes out of the blocks and can force tackles to abandon their technique to go catch him.
- Can bend and flatten at the top of the rush or hit a game-breaking spin counter inside.
- Explosiveness, hunger and body control should have him on track to become a highly productive 3-4 rush linebacker with Pro Bowl talent.
View the top photos from edge rusher Abdul Carter's career at Penn State.
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) blocks a pass by Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne (10) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Rutgers quarterback Gavin Wimsatt (2) is sacked by Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) forces a fumble by Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov.11, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Maryland running back Roman Hemby (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after tackling quarterback Payton Thorne (10) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) lines up during an NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Minnesota running back Trey Potts (3) in the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, in State College, Pa. Penn State won 45-17. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne (10) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) lines up during an NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Central Michigan running back Lew Nichols III (7) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after a play during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) pressures Rutgers quarterback Gavin Wimsatt (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) chases Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after a play during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Central Michigan running back Lew Nichols III (7) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger2
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) reacts against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Minnesota running back Mohamed Ibrahim (24) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) lines up during an NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) lines up against Central Michigan during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs during an NCAA football game against Southern California on Saturday, Oct.12, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Auburn quarterback Robby Ashford (9) is sacked by Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a sack against Maryland during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking Ohio State quarterback Will Howard during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Maryland quarterback MJ Morris (7) during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) prepares to sack Maryland quarterback MJ Morris, left, during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Maryland quarterback MJ Morris (7) during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) pass rushes during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game against Washington, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter celebrates after sacking Maryland quarterback MJ Morris during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking Ohio State quarterback Will Howard during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after a play during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) pass rushes during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game against Washington, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Southern California quarterback Miller Moss (7) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Oct.12, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking Ohio State quarterback Will Howard during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking Ohio State quarterback Will Howard during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) reacts after sacking Southern California quarterback Miller Moss during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) tackles Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Ohio State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs during an NCAA football game against Southern California on Saturday, Oct.12, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) lines up against Illinois during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Southern California quarterback Miller Moss during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Penn State defenders Abdul Carter (11) and Curtis Jacobs (23) tackle Iowa running back Kamari Moulton (28) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) pass rushes against UCLA during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a win against UCLA during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against UCLA during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) blocks a pass by Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne (10) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates his interception of a pass from Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer with defensive end Chop Robinson during an NCAA college football game against Illinois Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against UCLA during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Abdul Carter walks the sidelines during an NCAA college football game against Illinois Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter advances his interception of a pass from Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer during an NCAA college football game against Illinois Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Delaware running back Marcus Yarns (21) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates his interception with Chop Robinson during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter returns an interception of Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer's pass as Griffin Moore makes the tackle during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles West Virginia quarterback Nicco Marchiol (8) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after a play during the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game against Utah, Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, in Pasadena, Calif. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) rushes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Michigan State, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after a tackle during the second half of an NCAA college football game against West Virginia, Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) rushes past Michigan State offensive tackle Brandon Baldwin (53) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) tackles Michigan State running back Elijah Collins (24) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after sacking SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings during the second half in the first round of the College Football Playoff, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) looks on during pregame warmups before an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) looks on during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) gestures after a play during first half of the Orange Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff semifinal game against Notre Dame, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) runs around the edge during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. Penn State defeated USC in overtime, 33-30. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) pressures Bowling Green quarterback Connor Bazelak (7) during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) sacks Notre Dame quarterback Steve Angeli (18) during the first half of the Orange Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff semifinal game, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates after the Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff game against Boise State, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) during the Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff game against Boise State, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against UCLA during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) tackles Kent State running back Ky Thomas (3) during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter sacks SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings during the second half in the first round of the College Football Playoff, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against UCLA during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) rushes past Illinois offensive lineman J.C. Davis (74) during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defenders Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) and end Abdul Carter (11) celebrate a 21-7 win over Illinois during an NCAA college football game , Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates following a 21-7 win over Illinois during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) rushes past Illinois offensive lineman J.C. Davis (74) during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against Illinois during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against Illinois during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11)celebrates a tackle against Kent State during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a tackle against Illinois during the third quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) forces a fumble by Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov.11, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrates a 31-0 win over Iowa during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) celebrate a fumble by Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara (12) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) reacts after a tackle against Michigan during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov.11, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter (11) and defensive end Amin Vanover (15) celebrate against Iowa during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
West Virginia quarterback Garrett Greene fumbles as he is defended by Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Morgantown, W.Va., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Kathleen Batten)
CAREER NOTES & RECORDS
Career Rankings: Finished sixth all-time at Penn State in sacks (23.0), eighth in tackles for loss (39.5) and tied for 12th in forced fumbles (5). Notable: Posted 10 career games with at least two tackles for loss...Appeared in 42 career games, making 35 starts, and finished with 172 tackles (104 solo), 23 sacks, 39.5 tackles for loss, five forced fumbles and 13 pass breakups.
2024 Season Rankings: Placed third in a single season at Penn State in tackles for loss (23.5) and tied for sixth in sacks (12.0). Notable: 2024: Became the first Nittany Lion to post 10+ sacks in a season since Carl Nassib's 15.5 in 2015. 2022: Joined Deion Barnes (10 TFL, 6 sacks; 2012) as the only Penn State freshmen to record 10-plus tackles for loss and 6-plus sacks in a season...Was one of eight linebackers (10 instances) to put up 10-plus tackles for loss and 6-plus sacks in a season at Penn State...Became the first PSU linebacker since Dan Connor (15 TFL, 6.5 sacks; 2007) to reach the milestone.
2024 JUNIOR SEASON
Awards: Postseason: Became Penn State's 15th Unanimous Consensus All-American, first since Saquon Barkley in 2017, and 45th Consensus All-American...Selected the Nagurski-Woodson Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and the Smith-Brown Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year...Named a first-team All-American by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, AFCA, Associated Press, FWAA and The Sporting News...Voted All-Big Ten first team by the coaches and media. Midseason: Tabbed a Bednarik Award, Nagurski Trophy and Lombardi Award finalist...Named a semifinalist for the Walter Camp Player of the Year and the Lott IMPACT Trophy. Weekly: Earned Bednarik Award Player of the Week and Walter Camp Defensive Player of the Week honors (Washington - 11/9)...Named the Bednarik Award and Nagurski Trophy Defensive Player of the Week (Illinois - 9/28)...Earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors (Illinois - 9/28). Preseason: Named to the Bednarik Award, Butkus Award, Lombardi Award, Lott IMPACT Trophy, Nagurski Trophy, Reese's Senior Bowl, Ted Hendricks Award and Walter Camp Player of the Year Award watch lists.
Season: Started all 16 games and finished with 68 tackles (43 solo), 23.5 tackles for loss, 12.0 sacks, two forced fumbles and four pass breakups...Posted seven games with 2+ tackles for loss...Named the coaching staff's Defensive Player of the Game four times (Kent State - 9/21; Illinois - 9/28; Washington - 11/9; Maryland - 11/30).
Rankings: Led the nation with 23.5 tackles for loss...Finished second in the Big Ten, fourth in the Power Four and seventh overall nationally in sacks (12.0).
at West Virginia (8/31): Made a solo tackle. Bowling Green (9/7): Posted seven tackles (5 solo) with one tackle for loss and a pass breakup...The pass breakup came on a batted down pass on fourth down in the second quarter. Kent State (9/21): Notched a solo sack in the second quarter...Added a half-tackle for loss later in the quarter. Illinois (9/28): Finished the game with a career-high four tackles for loss...Added two sacks and a forced a fumble on a sack late in the fourth quarter, which was recovered by Smith Vilbert...Also had a pass breakup. UCLA (10/5): Made three stops, including 1.5 tackles for loss. at USC (10/12): Recorded a solo sack and added a half-tackle for loss in the third quarter...Finished with five tackles, a quarterback hurry and a pass breakup. at Wisconsin (10/26): Collected three tackles, including two solo. Ohio State (10/2): Recorded two sacks, with solo sacks in both the second and third quarters...Finished with four tackles (2 solo). Washington (11/9): Notched six tackles, including five solo...Tallied four tackles for loss, two sacks and a forced fumble...His first two tackles for loss came in the first quarter, one of which being a strip-sack. at Purdue (11/16): Made a team-high five tackles (all solo) to go with two tackles for loss...Both tackles for loss came in the second quarter. at Minnesota (11/23): Notched three tackles, including one solo. Maryland (11/30): Posted a team-high six tackles (3 solo), including two sacks. vs. Oregon (12/7): Made six tackles (4 solo). SMU (12/22): Tallied three solo tackles, including two tackles for loss and a sack...Also picked up a quarterback hurry. vs. Notre Dame (1/9): Posted two tackles for loss, including a solo sack in the second quarter...Added a pass breakup.
2023 SOPHOMORE SEASON
Awards: Postseason: Earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches and second-team from the media...Tabbed second-team All-American by Sports Illustrated...Named Penn State's Keystone Award winner on defense along with Kevin Winston Jr. Preseason: Named to the Bednarik Award, Butkus Award, Lombardi Award, Lott IMPACT Trophy and Nagurski Award watch lists...Earned PFF All-American honorable mention recognition.
Season: Started all 13 games...Made 48 tackles (25 solo), 5.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, an interception, a forced fumble, five pass breakups and five quarterback hurries...Named the coaching staff's Defensive Player of the Game (Maryland, 11/4).
West Virginia (9/2): Recorded a sack to force a turnover on downs in the fourth quarter...Added a quarterback hurry. Delaware (9/9): Made four tackles (3 solo) and added a quarterback hurry. at Illinois (9/16): Intercepted a pass in the first quarter and returned it 18 yards, the first pick of his career...Added a pair of tackles. Iowa (9/23): Made three tackles. at Northwestern (9/30): Broke up a pass and made a solo stop...Added a quarterback hurry. UMass (10/14): Posted three tackles, including a tackle for loss. at Ohio State (10/21): Made a career-high nine tackles (5 solo)...Added a pass breakup. Indiana (10/28): Tallied five tackles. at Maryland (11/4): Posted a team-high six tackles, a solo sack in the first quarter and a pass breakup. Michigan (11/11): Made three tackles (2 solo) to go along with a forced fumble and a pass breakup. Rutgers (11/18): Posted five tackles (2 solo), a half-sack and a quarterback hurry. at Michigan State (11/24): Tied his career high with two sacks, registering one in the second quarter and another in the third quarter...Finished with three solo tackles and added a quarterback hurry. vs. Ole Miss (12/30): Made three tackles and broke up a pass.
2022 TRUE FRESHMAN SEASON
Awards: Postseason: Earned All-Big Ten second team honors from the media and third team laurels from the coaches...Named a Phil Steele All-Big Ten second team selection...Earned spots on ESPN.com, Pro Football Focus, On3 and 247Sports' True Freshman All-American teams...Tabbed an FWAA and College Football News Freshman All-American...Named ECAC Defensive Rookie of the Year...Named Penn State's Keystone Award winner along with Kalen King and Juice Scruggs. Midseason: Was a finalist for the Maxwell Football Club's Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award.
Season: Appeared in 13 games, making six starts...Tallied 56 tackles (36 solo) with 10.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, four pass breakups and five quarterback hurries... Led the team in sacks and was second in tackles and tackles for loss...Earned the coaching staff's Defensive Player of the Week twice (Maryland, 11/12; Rutgers, 11/19).
Rankings: Finished fourth in the Big Ten in sacks (6.5), tied for sixth in forced fumbles (2) and tied for 11th in tackles for loss (10.5)...Paced all Big Ten freshmen in sacks, tackles for loss and forced fumbles, and was second in tackles (56)...Among FBS freshmen, was third in tackles for loss and tied for third in sacks.
Ohio (9/10): Made five tackles (2 solo). at Auburn (9/17): Tied for the team lead with six tackles (all solo)...Forced his first career fumble in the second quarter, which was recovered by Jonathan Sutherland...Recorded his first career sack in the third quarter. Central Michigan (9/24): Finished second on the team with five tackles (4 solo) to go along with a pass breakup. Northwestern (10/1): Made two tackles, including a tackle for loss. at Michigan (10/15): Recorded five tackles (4 solo) and added a tackle for loss. Minnesota (10/22): Made the first start of his career...Totaled eight tackles (3 solo)...Picked up a half sack. Ohio State (10/29): Recorded four tackles (3 solo)...Added a sack. at Indiana (11/5): Made two tackles...Added a quarterback hurry and a pass breakup. Maryland (11/12): Led the team with seven tackles (3 solo)...Added a sack, a forced fumble, a pass breakup and two quarterback hurries. at Rutgers (11/19): Recorded four total tackles (3 solo), including two tackles for loss and a sack. Michigan State (11/26): Set his career high in tackles for loss (3) and sacks (2)...Totaled seven tackles (5 solo). vs. Utah (1/2): Made a solo stop.
HIGH SCHOOL
Four-time letterman for head coach John Steinmetz at La Salle College High School...Team captain and MVP as a senior...Guided La Salle College to a 9-2 record his senior season and a PCL Championship...Invited to play in the All-American Bowl...Finished a two-time all-state honoree...Was a three-time All-Philadelphia Catholic League selection...Made 78 tackles (53 solo) as a senior, with two sacks, 10 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and two passes defended...Rated a four-star prospect by 247Sports, On3, Rivals and ESPN...Ranked the No. 295 prospect, No. 29 linebacker, and No. 10 player in Pennsylvania by 247Sports...Was the No. 225 player nationally, No. 23 linebacker and No. 7 prospect in Pennsylvania by On3...Rated the No. 218 recruit nationally, the No. 20 outside linebacker and No. 6 player in Pennsylvania by Rivals...Graded the No. 37 linebacker, No. 44 recruit in the region and No. 11 player in Pennsylvania by ESPN...Also lettered in basketball at La Salle College as a power forward.
PERSONAL
Full name is Abdul Jabar Carter....Son of Tina and Christopher Carter...Has two sisters, Cheryl and Cianie, and two brothers, Hakim and Isaiah...Enjoys video games, working out, shooting pool, playing chess and studying his linebacker position in free time...Has spent time as a volunteer tutor...Has the goal of playing in the NFL...Would like to major in computer science at Penn State.
Check out photos from Green Bay as the 2025 NFL Draft officially kicks off Thursday.
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the green room prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/NFL)
Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A detail view of the mic and podium on the draft stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
A general view of Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
A general view NFL Draft logo prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
A general view of Miami quarterback Cam Ward greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A detailed view of the New Era logo prior to the during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
The New York Giants logo is seen during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Georgia defensive back Malaki Starks greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the Lambeau Field prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view NFL Draft logo prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Alabama guard Tyler Booker poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Alabama offensive lineman Tyler Booker greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/NFL)
Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the green room prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/NFL)
A general view of Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/NFL)
A general view of Michigan defensive back Will Johnson greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Alabama guard Tyler Booker poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of the stage prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
A general view of Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Alabama guard Tyler Booker poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
2025 NFL Draft
Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
A general view of Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell greenroom area during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
2025 NFL Draft
2025 NFL Draft
2025 NFL Draft
2025 NFL Draft
2025 NFL Draft
A general view of the tunnel to the stage during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama guard Tyler Booker arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty reacts on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden poses on the red carpet prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe arrives prior to the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Logan Bowles/NFL)
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