Penn State’s standout pass rusher, Abdul Carter, is recognized as one of the premier talents eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft. However, recent medical evaluations could potentially impact his draft stock. As reported by ESPN, assessments conducted during the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis revealed that Carter is experiencing a stress reaction in his right foot, which may necessitate surgical intervention.

“There are differing opinions regarding the need for surgery, and we aim to determine the best course of action shortly,” stated Drew Rosenhaus, Carter’s agent, in an interview with ESPN.

2025 NFL Combine: Top Defensive Prospect Abdul Carter Skipping Workouts to Recover from Shoulder Injury

By Bryan DeArdo

In the event Carter requires surgery, it would involve the insertion of a screw into his right foot, sidelining him for approximately eight weeks. Alternatively, he may opt to forego surgery and participate in his Pro Day to demonstrate he can perform without the procedure, as noted by ESPN. Carter, along with his family and agents, Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey, are currently consulting with medical professionals to evaluate the situation. A decision is anticipated this week, according to reports.

“Regardless of the outcome, we don’t foresee this impacting his draft position,” Rosenhaus told ESPN. “After discussions with teams this week, I strongly believe he’s a contender for the No. 1 overall pick.”

Last season, Carter earned unanimous All-American honors as a junior at Penn State, leading the FBS with 24 tackles for loss. He also ranked third in pressures (66) and seventh in sacks (12) nationwide. Currently, Carter holds the No. 2 spot in CBS Sports’ prospect rankings, trailing only Colorado’s Travis Hunter.

Although he had intended to forgo workouts at the combine due to a shoulder injury sustained during Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl victory over Boise State, Carter is newly cleared to return to training. He hopes to showcase his skills at Penn State’s Pro Day on March 28. On Wednesday, prior to the revelation of his foot injury, Carter expressed confidence in his potential to be the top pick in the draft.

“I believe I’m the best player in the nation, and the top player deserves to be drafted at No. 1,” Carter stated during an appearance on CBS Sports HQ.