Under the Microscope: Scouting Abdul Carter

Penn State's monster pass-rusher is a top player in this class. Our team gives you all the info on the draft's best defender.

2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Abdul Carter, LB, Penn State

Position: Linebacker

School: Penn State

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 245 lbs

Class: Junior

Overview:

Abdul Carter has emerged as one of the premier linebacker prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class, showcasing a rare combination of size, athleticism, and instincts during his standout career at Penn State. A physical force on the field, Carter’s play style mirrors that of modern NFL linebackers, capable of excelling in coverage, pass-rushing, and run defense. After a dominant junior season in Happy Valley, where he racked up 115 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, six sacks, and two interceptions, Carter declared for the draft as a consensus All-American. His versatility and relentless motor make him an ideal fit for today’s increasingly hybrid defensive schemes.

Strengths:

1. Athleticism and Physical Traits

Carter is an exceptional athlete with a prototypical linebacker build. At 6’3” and 245 pounds, he possesses a strong, muscular frame with room for additional growth without sacrificing speed. His 40-yard dash is expected to clock in the 4.5-second range, and he demonstrates explosive burst and lateral quickness on tape. His athletic traits enable him to cover ground quickly, making him a sideline-to-sideline defender.

2. Instincts and Football IQ

Carter has a natural feel for the game, showcasing elite instincts in diagnosing plays. He reacts quickly to both run and pass plays, rarely caught out of position. His ability to read offensive schemes allows him to anticipate routes and be a step ahead of blockers, consistently putting himself in a position to make plays.

3. Versatility

One of Carter’s defining traits is his versatility. He’s equally effective as a pass rusher, run stopper, and coverage defender. On blitzes, his timing and acceleration through gaps make him a disruptive force, while in coverage, he can handle tight ends, running backs, and even slot receivers in short to intermediate zones. His versatility gives defensive coordinators a chess piece capable of excelling in multiple roles.