Get ready because the NFL scouting combine is just around the corner, taking place later this week in Indianapolis. Teams are gearing up for a chance to check out the emerging talents that will step into the spotlight at April’s draft.
But don’t expect to see all the big names there. For instance, Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback from the University of Colorado, is reportedly giving the event a miss. And he’s not alone. Abdul Carter, a standout defensive end from Penn State, is also sitting it out, courtesy of a shoulder injury he recently picked up.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Carter’s agents, Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey, confirmed that despite battling through the injury against Notre Dame, he still hasn’t fully bounced back. Hence, he’ll be taking a pass on the combine’s workouts.
Now, Carter is a player everyone’s keeping their eyes on. He’s pegged to be a top pick in the draft and is drawing a lot of interest, notably from the Cleveland Browns. With whispers about Myles Garrett possibly moving on, Carter could be the fresh blood they need.
Over the past season, Carter has been nothing short of phenomenal for the Nittany Lions, racking up 12 sacks, defending four passes, forcing two fumbles, and making 68 tackles, 43 of which were solo. This stellar performance earned him the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award.
Skipping the combine isn’t entirely out of the ordinary for top-tier prospects, but Carter’s reputation precedes him in NFL circles. There are even murmurs comparing him to the likes of Von Miller, a former Super Bowl MVP, and the dynamic Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 259 pounds, Carter is a physical powerhouse. With three years of college ball under his belt and experience in several bowl games, he’s certainly more seasoned than many other draft hopefuls. Keep an eye on him—he’s poised to bring his A-game to the professional stage.
