Abdul Carter: Top NFL prospect not working out at Combine

Penn State’s Abdul Carter, a highly touted prospect in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, will not be able to showcase his skills at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week due to a shoulder injury. Despite the setback, Carter will still participate in the league’s physical exams and interviews with teams.

The shoulder injury is not new for Carter, as he played through it in Penn State’s Orange Bowl loss to Notre Dame. However, he has been cleared to resume training recently, giving hope that he will be ready for his Nittany Lions Pro Day.

Carter’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed that the defensive end plans to be fully recovered in time for his pro day and expects him to perform at a high level. Dr. Dan Cooper, who cleared Carter to resume training, will also send a letter to all 32 NFL teams to update them on his status.

Carter is not the only top prospect skipping workouts at the combine. Running back Ashton Jeanty and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, both projected as first-round talents, will also sit out alongside Carter.

Considered the best defensive end in this year’s draft class, Carter had an impressive season for the Nittany Lions, recording 24 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four passes defended. His contributions were crucial in Penn State winning the Big Ten title and making a run to the College Football Playoff, ultimately falling to Notre Dame.

Mock drafts have Carter going as high as first or second overall, with some projections placing him as low as the seventh pick. His absence from the combine will be closely monitored by NFL teams as they evaluate their draft strategies.

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