Abdul Carter sends bold message to NFL teams reiterating choice for No. 1 overall pick in 2025 draft

Syndication: Hanover Evening Sun - Source: Imagn

Penn State Nittany Lions outside linebacker Abdul Carter has proven on the field to be one of the most dynamic players in the 2025 NFL draft class. With less than a month before the Tennessee Titans are on the clock with the first pick, Carter made a pitch during the Penn State pro day on Friday for why he should be selected by the team.

"I think just my overall impact on the game. 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." h/t ESPN

Carter was not able to participate on the field during the Penn State pro day as he continues to recover from an arm and shoulder injury sustained during the College Football Playoff, as well as a stress reaction in his right foot that was discovered during the NFL combine.

Carter was named the 2024 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year as well as an All-American as he posted 68 total tackles (43 solo, 25 assisted) with a FBS-leading 24 tackles for loss to pair with his 12.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four pass deflections.

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Abdul Carter discusses foot injury

Abdul Carter's stress fracture in his right foot was major news during the 2025 NFL combine, as surgery was seemingly on the table. It was also one of the reasons why he was unable to participate in the Penn State pro day, which could have potentially elevated his draft stock.

Carter explained how he did not know about the foot injury ahead of time and that he feels perfectly normal right now.

"I found out when they found out about it. I never had no symptoms, no pain. Doesn't bother me now. It didn't bother me during the season. So whatever they feel necessary for it, I don't feel any pain right now. No surgery or nothing like that." h/t ESPN

Abdul Carter currently has the second-highest odds after Cam Ward to be the first pick in the draft, but it is still a longshot as he is +800, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.

About the author

Vincent is a College Sports reporter at Sportskeeda with close to 6 years of experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Sport Business from Saint Leo University, and has worked with Pasco News Publications and Pro Football Focus.

Vincent's education has helped him approach sports writing from the understanding of what it takes to run a program/team and the business side of it. He has interviewed dozens of players, coaches and analysts and believes he asks the questions readers are interested in.

He ensures that the source is credible and cross-checks information before reporting to ensure accuracy and relevance in his articles.

Vincent doesn’t have a favorite team or player, as he tries to remain unbiased. However, he considers John Wooden the greatest coach of all time and the 1990 “Fifth Down Game” between Colorado and Missouri the most iconic College Sports moment.

For Vincent, College Sports is on par with the pro leagues as it is a professional pipeline with media rights deals and a free agency of sorts. He plays video games and hangs out with friends and family when he’s away from his keyboard.

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Edited by Dipayan Moitra