NittanyCentral

NittanyCentral delivers expert analysis from veteran reporters and timely updates on Penn State sports, with in-depth coverage of Nittany Lions Football, Wrestling, Basketball, and more.

NittanyCentral

NittanyCentral delivers expert analysis from veteran reporters and timely updates on Penn State sports, with in-depth coverage of Nittany Lions Football, Wrestling, Basketball, and more.

Penn State Football, Abdul Carter

NFL Teams Are Talking About Abdul Carter — But Not for the Reason You Might Think

During the first quarter of Penn State Football’s 31-14 win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl, star edge rusher Abdul Carter sustained a shoulder injury. This injury left Carter out for the remainder of the game against Boise State. After a week and change of cryptic tweets and much speculation, Carter played in the Orange Bowl.

The Philadelphia native impacted the Orange Bowl immensely. Carter put on one of the most impressive performances in Penn State Football history, given he was battling through a severe shoulder injury.

Carter notched five tackles and a sack against Notre Dame in that epic Orange Bowl battle.

Where do things stand with Abdul Carter now?

Penn State Football, Abdul Carter
Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter (Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images)

After not working out at the NFL draft combine, speculation began to swirl about Carter’s injury. This speculation only worsened at Penn State‘s pro day. Carter elected not to work out there either due to a foot injury. Obviously, these possible injuries could hamper Carter’s draft stock.

According to NFL Insider and Reporter Matt Lombardo, teams aren’t overly worried about any injury concerns when it comes to how they’re viewing Carter three weeks out from the draft.

“One source said there are “Zero concerns,” Lombardo writes for Between The Hashmarks. “Another added, “None whatsoever that I’ve heard from the Titans or the Browns.”

As Carter looks to secure a top-three draft pick. Given that these injury concerns seem to be a nonfactor for the teams who could potentially draft Carter, that should only boost his already high chances to go within the top three.


Abdul Carter’s Ideal NFL Draft Fit

Penn State Football, Abdul Carter
Southern Methodist Mustangs quarterback Kevin Jennings (7) is sacked by Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter (Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images)

There has been a lot of steam about Carter possibly going number 2 overall to the Browns. That seems like a good landing spot for Carter.

Pairing Myles Garrett and Carter could be a deadly combo. However, Carter is clear. He wants to be taken first overall. With the NFL Draft only 20 days away Penn State fans should feel good about Abdul Carter’s draft stock.

MORE Penn State Football News from NittanyCentral:

A note to our readers; If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission
Ian Purdy
Follow Ian
Scroll to top