2025 NFL Draft star Abdul Carter insists he impacts the game just as much as a quarterback. The Penn State defensive end has made a strong case for his value, asserting that elite defensive players can change the course of a game in critical moments, similar to the influence of a quarterback.
“Those great defensive players … they can impact the game just as much as a quarterback,” Carter stated, referencing pivotal playoff moments where defensive standouts have turned the tide. “There [have] been defensive players who’ve taken over a game right at the end of [the] Super Bowl in those playoff scenes where you really need that great defensive player — and he also makes people around him better.”
Carter believes that defensive players possess the ability to dominate a game, just like quarterbacks do. “So, I feel like just saying that, seeing how defensive players can take over a game, we’re just like a quarterback,” he added.
What sets Carter apart from his peers? His versatility and impact on the field are his standout attributes. “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,” he explained.
Carter emphasizes that he elevates the performance of those around him. “At the end of the day, I make people around me better — just take them on double-teams, bringing extra attention to me, freeing up somebody else so they can make the play — and just my overall impact on the game.”
During his three seasons at Penn State, Carter earned the title of 2024 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing his talent with impressive stats: 12.0 sacks, a conference-high 24 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, four passes defended, and 68 combined tackles. His performance from 2022-23 included 11.0 sacks and three forced fumbles.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, it was revealed that Carter had a stress reaction in his right foot and played through a shoulder injury during the College Football Playoff. Although he chose not to participate in drills at both the combine and Penn State’s pro day, he reassured fans, stating he doesn’t “feel any pain” or require surgery.
Despite these injuries, Carter’s draft prospects remain strong. The Tennessee Titans are expected to select Miami Hurricanes quarterback and 2024 Heisman Trophy runner-up Cameron Ward with the first pick. Carter is projected to be picked between second and fourth, with the Cleveland Browns at second, followed by the New York Giants and New England Patriots.
[MORE: 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Titans take Cam Ward No. 1; Travis Hunter to Giants]
Carter finds himself in a competitive race with Colorado Buffaloes’ Travis Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, to be the first non-quarterback selected in the draft.
