Abdul Carter EDGE Penn State: Scouting Report

Height: 6’2

Weight: 252

Overall

Abdul Carter is an explosive edge defender in Penn State’s hybrid defense. In his 3 seasons with the Nittany Lions he played in 42 games, starting 35 of them. He lined up all along the defensive line as both a stand up rusher as well as in a 4 point stance and he was even used as an off ball linebacker at times. He had excellent production during his college career and with his elite physical traits, he will be an immediate playmaker at the next level. 

Pass Game

Carter has an elite first step and he is explosive off the line of scrimmage making it difficult for offensive tackles to get hands on him early. At times he will try to time the snap rather than watching the ball causing him to jump offsides, but that is something that can be fixed in the pros. When rushing on the outside, he has very good bend to duck under blocks along with the balance to stay on his feet and get to the quarterback once he has an open lane. He has quick feet and burst allowing him to get around tackles with an inside step. He has a good pass rush repertoire with his bend, inside swim move, and spin move and with his elite athleticism he can continue to grow as a pass rusher in the NFL. Carter is also used off the ball in coverage and as a QB spy. He has very good vision to follow the play and he has elite closing speed to make plays all over the field.

Run Game

Against the run, Carter has the strength to set the edge and force the ball inside as well as the quickness to evade blocks and make plays in the backfield. If offensive linemen or tight ends get their hands on him and get leverage though he often gets driven back and out of the play due to his lack of size. On zone runs his way, he struggles to fight back against the blocks coming his way and he is left to just try and hold his own to keep the ball-carrier from getting to the edge. If he can improve his ability to block shed in the NFL, he can make a more consistent impact on every down.

Last Word

Abdul Carter can play as either a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker. With his speed and versatility as both a pass rusher and off the ball linebacker, he projects best in a 3-4 scheme where he can be used all over the field. He is a truly elite pass rusher and with his elite first step and his physicality, he can be a game-changer on 3rd downs.  

One-Liner: Abdul Carter has elite athleticism at his position, and he will be an immediate impact player in the pros with his ability to get to the quarterback in the pass game and ability to chase down plays in the run game.

Grade: 7.4 (High End 3 Down Starter)

Games Watched: 2024 - Oregon, West Virginia, Ohio State

Team Fits: Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars