Starting Penn State defender Abdul Carter has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, marking a significant milestone in his football career. Carter, who has been a standout player for the Nittany Lions, is projected to be a potential top-10 pick following an impressive junior season where he earned CBS Sports first-team All-America honors and was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Abdul Carter’s Stellar Season
During the 2024 season, Carter showcased his exceptional skills on the field, finishing with 24 tackles for loss and 12 sacks, solidifying his reputation as one of the most disruptive defensive players in college football. His performance was particularly notable during Penn State’s College Football Playoff semifinal against Notre Dame, where he recorded a sack and two tackles for loss despite battling through a shoulder injury. Carter’s declaration comes after a season that saw him transition from linebacker to defensive end under new defensive coordinator Tom Allen, a move that proved beneficial for both him and the team. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed the decision, emphasizing Carter’s readiness to compete at the next level. Penn State head coach James Franklin praised Carter’s resilience and mental toughness, highlighting his impact on the game even while injured.
Impact on Penn State’s Defense
Carter is not alone in his decision to enter the draft; fellow teammates Jaylen Reed and Jalen Kimber have also declared, contributing to what appears to be a significant offseason transition for Penn State football. Reed, who led the Nittany Lions in tackles with 98 total during the 2024 season, is projected as a potential Day 2 draft pick. He was instrumental in both coverage and run defense throughout the year. Kimber, who played one season with Penn State after transferring from Georgia and Florida, also announced his entry into the draft following an honorable mention All-Big Ten performance.
Future Prospects
As Abdul Carter prepares for the NFL Draft, he has expressed gratitude towards his family, coaches, and teammates for their unwavering support throughout his journey. In a heartfelt social media post, he acknowledged how crucial their encouragement has been in shaping his career. With early evaluations placing him among the top prospects in this year’s draft class—ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranks him as the No. 2 overall player—Carter’s future looks promising as he aims to make an impact at the professional level.
In summary, Abdul Carter’s declaration for the NFL Draft not only highlights his individual achievements but also signals a pivotal moment for Penn State football as it navigates player departures and prepares for future seasons.
