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Giants insider provides important insight on first round rookie Abdul Carter that will get New York fans fired up
John Jones-Imagn Images

When the New York Giants chose Abdul Carter in the 2025 NFL Draft back in April, it wasn't the easiest decision. 

The film left no doubt: He was the best defensive prospect of the class, if not the best overall. He could make a Day 1 impact for the Giants defense and be the cornerstone of the unit even as a rookie. 

However, there was also a decision on whether or not he'd undergo foot surgery. He sat out of the NFL Scouting Combine because of a shoulder injury and later Penn State's Pro Day because of the foot issue discovered in Indianapolis

In other words, before Carter's career even began, there were questions about his health. The Giants didn't waver and it's already paying off based on how the offseason is going for the top rookie. 

According to Giants insider Dan Duggan, the coaching staff didn't cut down Carter's snaps at practice. In his words, "that's notable because they were very conservative with injuries" during the spring.

That's huge news for the Giants, as it confirms Carter is on track to start Week 1 of the regular season. The front office had other intriguing choices on the table when they went for Carter but betting on the star rusher despite injury concerns isn't only paying dividends but it appears to be a non-issue. 

Carter has been tearing it up in early practices, showing his explosiveness way of playing and impressing his teammates even though live contact isn't allowed at this stage of the offseason.

"Man, he's a beast, he's been doing his thing, he's fast, explosive, smart, excited," Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux told reporters earlier in the week. "He's been taking his roles really strongly and he's been doing his thing in the inside, on the outside, so excited to have another guy to add to the gauntlet."

In late July, the rookie and his team will put the pads on and then we'll truly get the chance to evaluate his play. 

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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