Abdul Carter, the former Penn State star, declared himself the top player in the 2025 NFL draft class during a press conference at the scouting combine. Carter finished last season with impressive stats, including 68 tackles, 23 1/2 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. He believes his hard work and sacrifices make him the best player and should be selected first overall.
Carter’s case is strengthened by his performance in 2024, where he was the Big Ten’s top defensive player. However, the question remains whether he’s a better fit at defensive end or outside linebacker. According to ESPN, Carter has a stress reaction in his right foot that may require surgery.
Leaping over top quarterbacks like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, as well as Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, will be challenging for Carter. Cincinnati Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin noted that non-quarterbacks are less likely to be picked first overall.
Undeterred, Carter believes that defensive players can have a significant impact on the game, citing examples from past Super Bowl winners. With Tennessee holding the No. 1 overall pick, Carter hopes to defy expectations and become the third Penn State player to hear his name called first on draft weekend.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/article/defensive-end-abdul-carter-says-180339377.html