“Injuries are a setback, but comebacks define a player.” Recovering from an injury isn’t just about physical rehab—it’s about overcoming doubt, staying patient, and proving you can return stronger. Unfortunately, Penn State’s Abdul Carter now faces that challenge after suffering an injury just before Day 1 of the NFL Combine. Well, now as he works his way back, the big question remains—when will he return, and how will it impact his future?

Carter was seen as the top defensive prospect in the 2025 draft—a dominant force with elite potential. But with this injury, his draft stock is suddenly in question. And now, a doctor has shared an update on his recovery, giving some insight into what’s next. So, how much will this setback impact his future? Taking to X, Deepak Chona shared: “Abdul Carter – Stress reaction implies bone is not broken, so results = promising. With or without surgery, most heal and return w/o dip in production, durability or longevity. I’d sit the Pro Day out cuz training on it risks worsening/prolonging it. Agents always downplay concern, but in this case I buy it.”

Well, this certainly is a promising update for Carter, but the question remains, what now? His next steps will be huge. Sitting out Pro Day might be the smart move, but it also means missing a big chance to remind scouts why he was the No. 1 prospect in the 2025 draft. Before the injury, he was seen as a game-changer—a player with the athleticism and explosiveness to dominate at the next level. But now? There might be a little bit of doubt creeping in. Well, what does that mean for the teams who were looking at him as their potential pick? Especially the Titans, who have the No.1 overall pick and require a QB.

Well, it seems like Borgonzi already has alternatives in mind: Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. According to analyst Ben Rolfe: “The Tennessee Titans need an answer at quarterback, and Cam Ward is how the winds seem to be blowing right now.” Interesting right? Well, it seems like not just Ward, but Shedeur might also be someone the Titans can consider, as the Titans’ GM trusts does not believe in his ‘weakness’: “I think he has plenty of arm strength. Some of the anticipatory throws sometimes make up for the lack of arm strength.” 

Well, Carter’s injury might have shaken up draft boards, but does it completely take him out of the No. 1 pick conversation?

Abdul Carter believes he should be the No.1 draft pick

Apart from his on-field abilities, there is one more thing that is very admirable about Carter: His Confidence. The 21-year-old trusts his abilities and clearly stated how he should be the No.1 draft pick. The Penn State EDGE is present in Indianapolis for the Combine, and while he is not working out, he has still been giving interviews and going through medical evaluations. It was there that he mentioned: “I think I bring energy, effort, versatility. I feel like when the biggest moments come around, that’s when I play the best.” The question though, is will it happen?

The Titans hold the No.1 pick, and well they have shown interest in Ward and Sanders, and then there is also Travis Hunter; a two-way ‘generational talent’ every team would be looking at. So who then will the Titans pick? Well, Carter certainly believes he can be the one: “It’s very realistic. I feel like I’m the best player in the country and the best player should be selected No.1.” Well, Carter’s confidence is undeniable, but the question is, will it be enough to sway the Titans—or any team—into taking him first overall?

With other top prospects in the mix, his path to the No. 1 pick just got a lot more complicated. Will his talent outweigh the injury concerns, or will teams play it safe and look elsewhere? Guess, we will find out soon enough.