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By Robert Marvi
Contributing Sports Writer
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Abdul Carter was one of the most lauded prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft coming out of Pennsylvania State University. In fact, some had the pass rusher as the best talent in this year's draft class.
But the No. 3 overall pick hasn't exactly lived up to expectations as a rookie. His stats and overall play have been weak, and on Monday against the New England Patriots, he was benched during the first quarter for two drives.
Carl Banks, a star linebacker who won two Super Bowl championships with the Giants in the 1986 and 1990 seasons, had some harsh words for Carter in the wake of the 22-year-old's benching.
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"It's time for the kid to grow up," Banks said. "... If we're just finding this out now, this has gotten to have been a pattern going on all year. ... When you have these types of things and you don't care enough to be engaged and you have to be disciplined twice, how many other times has this happened and they just kind of overlooked it?"
Read more: Former Steelers Player Rips Into Pittsburgh After Loss to Bills
This was the second time Carter was benched this season. The first time came in Week 11 in a 27-20 loss to the Green Bay Packers after he was not present for a team walk-through. According to the Giants, he was benched on Sunday because he showed up late, although no details were given.
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Carter had an outstanding 2024 season with 12 sacks and an NCAA Division I FBS-high 23.5 tackles for loss while being named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. But as a rookie in the pros, he has been underwhelming. In 13 games this season, he has registered 31 total tackles (17 solo), 1.5 sacks and one tackle for loss.
Overall, Monday was an ugly game for New York. It fell behind 30-7 by halftime, and its defense was practically nonexistent, as Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed 24 of 31 pass attempts for 282 yards and two touchdowns. The team's 33-15 loss gave it a 2-11 record, which is the worst nark in the NFC.
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Carter is one of several young players on the Giants who have plenty of potential and represent hope for the franchise's short to medium-term future. But right now, he has too much room for improvement, both on and off the field.
For more on the Giants and general NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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