Giants Willing To 'Figure Out' Carter Dilemma

Of the top prospects for the New York Giants to consider, Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter is the messiest fit. However, he seems to be the most likely selection at No. 3, tasking the Giants to make do with a surplus on the defensive line.

On its face, Carter playing more time than 2022 first-round pick Kayvon Thibodeaux offers less of an upgrade than corner/receiver Travis Hunter over Deonte Banks and Darius Slayton/Wan’Dale Robinson. In 2026, though, the Giants could very well be without Thibodeaux, whose fifth-year option is due on May 1.

That makes Carter a viable long-term play and a short-term luxury.

Nevertheless, New York general manager Joe Schoen and the coaching staff will be tasked with figuring out a plan for Carter’s rookie year to weaponize him along a strong defensive line. With Thibodeaux, Brian Burns, and Dexter Lawrence joining him, he shouldn’t be held back by double teams. Playing time might be another issue.

At his pre-draft presser, Schoen revealed the key to the Giants potentially picking Carter.

“I don't think so. Everybody watched the Super Bowl, right? Philly rushed with how many, four the whole game? That's one way to do it,” Schoen said.

“If you think about any of these players that may or may not be in the mix, as a unique player like him that played off the ball for two years and has only played one season off the edge and had a really good season.

“You've got Kayvon, and you've got Burns, you've got Dex inside. It gives you a lot of options. He's a versatile player. He's young, just 21 years old, and an exciting player to watch. Yeah, you can't have enough pass rushers.”

Schoen’s right – one cannot have too many pass rushers. Creating a pipeline has more promise than the conflict it creates, and pairing Carter with Burns is a good way to ensure the defensive line remains potent well into the future.

The most fun, though, might come with all three edge rushers on the field (with one kicking inside), a package New York can use on passing downs. Each of them would benefit from Lawrence’s gravity and their peers’ talent, creating a beautiful showcase of pass-rush synergy.

“Yeah, we would find a way. It's no different than with Travis Hunter. You've got a first round corner, and we just brought in Paulson. We've got three receivers -- you figure it out. You've got good football players, you figure out, find a way to get him on the field and utilize him.”