Abdul Carter, the New York Giants’ first-round draft pick, faced disciplinary action during the team’s recent game against the Green Bay Packers. The rookie linebacker was benched for the first series of the match on November 16, 2025, which ended in a 27-20 defeat for the Giants.
Reason for Benching
Carter’s absence from the field for the opening six plays stemmed from a mistake he made earlier in the week. He acknowledged the consequences of his actions, stating, “I made a mistake during the week that was detrimental to the team.” This decision was identified as a “coach’s decision” by interim head coach Mike Kafka, who assumed leadership after the firing of Brian Daboll.
Game Details
- Opponent: Green Bay Packers
- Final Score: Giants 20 – Packers 27
- Carter’s Performance: One tackle, one quarterback hit
- Sacks in Season: 0.5
Carter was poised to start in place of the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux but instead watched Tomon Fox play the initial snaps. Despite the benching, Carter participated in the punt return team, showcasing his versatility on special teams.
Coaching Remarks
Kafka expressed confidence in Carter’s future, emphasizing his potential and eagerness to learn. “I love Abdul and what he brings to this team,” Kafka remarked. The coach added, “He loves ball,” suggesting that Carter’s work ethic and dedication are strengths that will help him grow.
Team Dynamics
Veteran edge rusher Brian Burns spoke with Carter after the game, encouraging him to stay prepared and focus on improving. Burns downplayed the incident, suggesting that it was resolved internally and did not warrant extensive discussion.
Defensive Struggles
Despite some individual contributions, the Giants’ defense faced criticism for allowing the Packers to secure the game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter. This performance raised concerns about the effectiveness of defensive coordinator Shane Bowen. Following the game, Kafka indicated a willingness to assess the coaching staff and strategies moving forward.
- Current Record: 2-9
- Defensive Issues: Late-game performance concerns
- Next Steps: Evaluation of the coaching staff and strategies
As the Giants look ahead, Abdul Carter’s ability to learn from this experience will be crucial for his development and the team’s future success. The disciplinary action serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability in professional sports.
