EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — In a game filled with challenges, New York Giants first-round draft pick Abdul Carter found himself benched for the initial series of Sunday’s 27-20 defeat against the Green Bay Packers. The decision stemmed from a “coach’s decision,” as explained by interim head coach Mike Kafka, who replaced the fired Brian Daboll earlier in the week.
Carter did not see action during the first six plays of the game, which marked the Packers’ opening drive. However, he was present for the remaining 45 defensive snaps. The rookie expressed regret over his actions during the week that led to his temporary sit-out, stating, “I made a mistake during the week that was detrimental to the team. That was the consequence of it. Got to live with it.”
Initially expected to fill in for the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux, Carter’s absence allowed Tomon Fox to take the field for those critical first plays. Following the punt, Carter did make an appearance on the punt return team, a role he has executed intermittently throughout the season.
Kafka praised Carter, emphasizing the talented skill set he brings to the Giants and expressed enthusiasm for how he would approach the upcoming week of practice: “I love Abdul and what he brings to this team… I’m excited to watch him attack this week of practice and continue to work and grow.”
Drafted third overall out of Penn State, Carter’s impact during his rookie season has been modest, with just one tackle and one quarterback hit in the recent game, and a total of 0.5 sacks on the season. Despite the setback, Carter maintained a resilient outlook, remarking, “I already know. Whatever I do is going to have consequences… That was the consequence. Have to live with it. Keep playing.”
Veteran defensive lineman Brian Burns shared insights from his conversation with Carter, encouraging him to stay focused and prepared. Burns did not view the incident as a significant concern, noting, “It’s just professional though… It ain’t no big meeting or anything like that. It happened. It’s over.”
Burns continued to impress on the field, recording two additional sacks to increase his total to 13 for the season. However, the Giants’ defense faced scrutiny for their inability to secure a stop when it mattered most, allowing the Packers to score the decisive touchdown in the final minutes of the game.
Following the loss—their fifth in a row—questions arose regarding the future of defensive coordinator Shane Bowen. Kafka indicated that he would be considering all options as he evaluates the team’s performance moving forward.
Despite the Giants’ struggles this season, Kafka’s leadership and commitment to nurturing young talents like Carter could pave the way for future improvement. As they work toward greater cohesion and performance on the field, there remains a sliver of hope that upcoming practices will yield a stronger, more united team ready to rebuild in the remainder of the season.