Philly native Abdul Carter pledges loyalty to Giants ahead of 2025 NFL draft

Abdul Carter, the star defensive end from Penn State Nittany Lions, is one of the most talked-about names ahead of the 2025 NFL draft. He is considered a top pick, with ESPN’s Peter Schrager and "The Ringer’s" Todd McShay both projecting him as a potential No. 3 selection for the New York Giants.

Arriving in Green Bay ahead of draft day on April 24, 2025, Carter was asked about his Philadelphia roots and his mindset if the Giants take him off the board in the first round with their third pick.

“That'd be dope, but obviously you know, once I go to New York, I'm all New York, I'm gonna have to leave Philly behind, so we'll see,” Carter said,

In the 2024 season, Carter totaled 68 tackles, with 43 solo and 25 assisted. He recorded 12 sacks, 4 pass deflections and forced 2 fumbles.

NFL insider links Abdul Carter's draft future to Shedeur Sanders

On Monday, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport talked about a situation where Carter could drop in rankings if the Giants choose Shedeur Sanders at No. 3 in the 2025 NFL draft instead of the Penn State DE.

"The fate of Abdul Carter, to me, is just as interesting as the fate of Shedeur Sanders. I'm gonna go back to you mentioning the Giants potentially taking Shedeur No. 3. If that happens, then something that could be, I think, inconceivable may unfold, which is Carter not going No. 3. I would say, probably, not going No. 4 if the Patriots end up going with an offensive lineman for maybe, Will Campbell,” Rapoport said [1:32].

"Does he slide to No. 5 with the Jaguars? Which, again, you never think would happen, and then does that set up a potential trade? I mean, how many teams in the top 10 would be willing to make just a small leap for a pass rusher, who is not just the best in this draft, but the best pass rusher in the past several drafts.”

It remains to be seen whether Carter will be drafted as expected or if a late twist will shake up the predictions.