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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

“Instinctive and Fast” Abdul Carter Surges up Mel Kiper Jr.’s Latest NFL Mock Draft

The college football season officially ended Monday night when Ohio State beat Notre Dame 34-23 to claim their ninth title in school history.

Now that the college football season is over, it’s time for NFL Draft talk.

With the Senior Bowl next week, many draft experts will discuss this year’s prospects and put together their mock draft projections.

One of the top players in this class is Penn State pass rusher Abdul Carter, who is expected to be selected among the first five picks.


Mel Kiper Continues to be Bullish on Abdul Carter

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

ESPN’s Mel Kiper released his first mock draft of many on Wednesday. With the fourth overall selection, he has Carter going to the New England Patriots.

Kiper is high on the Penn State EDGE and had nothing but great things to say.

“Carter is instinctive and fast, and he seems to always be around the ball,” Kiper wrote for ESPN. “He converted from off-ball linebacker to the edge this season and dominated to the tune of 12 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss. For a New England team that struggled to get pressure, Carter would be a massive addition. New coach Mike Vrabel could move him around and use his disruptive traits to improve the Patriots’ league-low sack count (28).

New England also has glaring holes at receiver and on the offensive line. If Hunter is still on the board, he fits. Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan makes some sense, too. And there’s a shot the Pats get an offer to trade back, which would put them in a better spot to take one of the top offensive tackles. But Carter — my No. 2 prospect — could take this defense to another level.”


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Carter is the type of guy you want on your team. His motor skills and love of the game will help him succeed in this league.

An NFL team can never go wrong drafting a defensive player who wore the #11 at Penn State, and whoever takes Carter will be getting a great player.

Abdul Carter, Penn State Football
Dec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter (11) reacts with teammates after defeating the Boise State Broncos in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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