New York Giants outside linebacker Abdul Carter has emerged as the early frontrunner for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Award. According to BETMGM, Carter is the clear favorite, with odds of +250, while Jacksonville Jaguars defensive back Travis Hunter sits as the second contender at +750. Hunter, who also plays wide receiver, is eligible for both the Defensive and Offensive Rookie of the Year Awards.
Other notable candidates for the defensive honor include Atlanta Falcons linebacker Jalon Walker, San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Mykel Williams, and Baltimore Ravens edge rusher Mike Green. Since 2010, the award has mostly gone to pass rushers, with defensive linemen and edge rushers winning 11 out of the past 15 years.
The last non-pass rusher to win was New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner in 2022, with the previous cornerback winner being Marshon Lattimore in 2017.
- Abdul Carter
Carter, a standout from Penn State, is known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities and versatility, as he can line up as either a defensive end or a stand-up linebacker. Over three seasons with the Nittany Lions, he totaled 172 tackles, including 41 for a loss, 23 sacks, one interception, and 13 pass breakups. Last season, he earned recognition with 12 sacks and 24 tackles for loss, along with two forced fumbles.
His impressive ability to pressure the quarterback is expected to carry over to the NFL, although he’ll have to compete for playing time with Kayvon Thibodeaux. The Giants’ defense, bolstered by Dexter Lawrence II (who led the team with nine sacks despite missing five games) and Brian Burns, sets Carter up for success. The third overall pick has the tools to make an impact — now it’s up to him to deliver.
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