Abdul Carter Withdraws from NFL Combine Workouts Due to Shoulder Injury

Abdul Carter Pulls Out of NFL Combine Workouts Over Injury Concerns

Penn State standout Abdul Carter, a player projected to be a top pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, will not participate in the workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week. The decision comes in light of a shoulder injury that has plagued him during his last collegiate season.

Despite this setback, Carter plans to engage in the combine’s physical examinations and meet with NFL teams. This aspect of the event is crucial for prospects seeking to impress scouts and executives.

Understanding Carter’s Injury

Carter’s shoulder issue is not new, as he played through the pain in the recent Orange Bowl against Notre Dame. However, in a positive turn of events, he was cleared to resume training recently. This signals his commitment to recovery and performing at his best for professional teams.

Agent Assures Availability for Pro Day

Drew Rosenhaus, Carter’s agent, expressed confidence in his client’s ability to recover in time for the Nittany Lions Pro Day. In a statement to ESPN, Rosenhaus said, “We fully expect Abdul to be recovered in time to work out at his pro day at Penn State, and he will perform at a very high level.” This assurance provides hope to teams that are keen on evaluating his skills.

Transparency with NFL Teams

To keep all NFL franchises informed about his recovery, Rosenhaus intends to send a letter from Dr. Dan Cooper to all 32 NFL teams. Dr. Cooper has cleared Carter to officially resume training, according to ESPN. This proactive communication reflects the importance of transparency in the player evaluation process.

Other Notable Prospects Missing Workouts

Carter is not alone in opting out of combine workouts. Notable prospects such as running back Ashton Jeanty and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, both of whom are also viewed as first-round talent, have made similar decisions. Their absences highlight the strategic choices some players are making as they prepare for their futures in professional football.

Carter’s Impressive College Career

Many experts regard Carter as potentially the top defensive end in his draft class and perhaps the premier defensive player available overall. During the past season, he amassed impressive statistics, including 24 tackles for a loss, 12 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four passes defended. His contributions were pivotal in Penn State’s path to the College Football Playoff.

Mock Draft Predictions

Draft analysts show a wide range of opinions regarding Carter’s potential draft position. Some mock drafts have him listed as high as the first or second overall pick, while others place him closer to No. 7. Such variability in predictions indicates the competitive and unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft.

Looking Ahead to the Draft

As the NFL Draft approaches, teams are eager to assess the top talents available. Carter’s absence at the combine may raise questions, but his past performances and recovery timeline will likely play significant roles in determining his draft stock.

A Promising Future Awaits

Following the NFL Combine, all eyes will be on Carter during the Pro Day. His performance there could significantly impact his draft position and future in the NFL. With a strong showing, he could reaffirm his status as a top prospect, demonstrating the talent and skill that made him a standout at Penn State.

As fans and analysts await the NFL Combine results, the anticipation for the draft builds. Abdul Carter’s recovery will be closely monitored as he navigates this pivotal moment in his athletic career, with a promising future on the line.