Abdul Carter taking early Giants career ‘one day at a time’

Abdul Carter, the third overall selection in the 2025 NFL draft, was one of the players who answered questions. He talked about a lot of things, adjusting to wearing No. 51, what he hasn’t shown the Giants yet, that he’s excited to be here, and his friendly rivalry with tight end Theo Johnson.

There are two things that became clear throughout the session: Carter is taking things one day at a time, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to help the team.

While not in the same words, the undertone to many of his answers leaned in that direction. When he was asked if he would wear No. 51 during the season or change it, he sounded committed.

“Pretty much what we had available. It was a good number,” he said. “It’s pretty much set. I’m just happy to be out here playing football. That’s all I’m worried about.”

Later, Carter was asked how he would respond if a coach sat him for drills.

“Whatever they feel is best, I’m going to listen to what they say, so whatever they tell me to do, that’s what I’m going to do. Just do my job,” he said.

Carter also said that he’d line up at any position they wanted, although he’ll start in the outside linebackers room.

“I was talking to Coach, line me up at fullback, tight end, and I can block and catch, so wherever they need me, I’m going to line up,” he said.

When the future was brought up regarding what kind of linebacker Giants fans were going to see on Sundays this fall, Carter didn’t sugarcoat it.

“I’m not worrying about Sunday right now,” he said. “I’m just focused on rookie minicamp, taking everything one day at a time.”

Carter is someone who made the Giants’ defense better as soon as Roger Goodell said his name. He grew up in Pennsylvania, he was well-prepared by Penn State head coach James Franklin for the NFL, he says all the right things, and it seems like he wants to do all the right things.

If he stays on that track, Carter is going to have a long and successful career in the NFL.