Giants’ Abdul Carter Speaks Out About Getting Benched

First-round pass rusher Abdul Carter watched the New York Giants’ first defensive series from the sideline Sunday as the Green Bay Packers moved the ball 34 yards in six plays before punting. The absence of the third overall pick was not due to injury; it was discipline.

Following the 31-24 loss that dropped the Giants to 2-9, Carter openly acknowledged a misstep during the practice week that led to the punishment.

“I made a mistake during the week that was detrimental to the team,” Carter said.

“That was the consequence of it. Got to live with it.”

Interim head coach Mike Kafka classified the decision simply as a “coach’s decision” while expressing continued confidence in the former Penn State star.

“I love Abdul and what he brings to this team,” Kafka said. “The skill set he has, this guy loves ball. I’m excited to watch him attack this week of practice and continue to work and grow and be the great player that I think he is.”

Carter returned to the lineup for the remainder of the contest and finished with three tackles and one quarterback hit. Through 11 games as a rookie, the 22-year-old has recorded just half a sack but ranks among the top first-year edge rushers in total pressures, according to league tracking data.

The highly touted defender appeared to take the discipline in stride and emphasized accountability moving forward.

“I already know. Whatever I do is going to have consequences,” Carter said. “That was the consequence. Have to live with it. Keep playing.”

The New York Giants host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 12 as they attempt to snap a six-game losing streak.