Abdul Carter isn’t someone you merely observe; he’s someone you endure. If you’re fortunate enough. The former Penn State threat not only created a stir in his first season as a full-time edge rusher. But he also caused quarterbacks to reevaluate their career decisions. Carter dominated his way into the top-5 selection projections. Led the entire FBS with 23.5 tackles for loss and racked up 12.5 sacks. Combine invitations? Refused. Pro day? skipped. Recovered from injuries? Yes. But the scouts were still drooling. Why? Because the workouts don’t have to be that loud when the tape speaks.

Apart from being a high-upside pick, Abdul Carter is already honing his Sunday hunting skills in preparation for the 2025 NFL Draft. And his camp isn’t taking any chances. They are calling out the teams.

Carter’s team is out here establishing the terms, not hanging around hoping for a nice fit as the selection boards continue to whirl. Powerhouse agent Drew Rosenhaus also claims that there are favorites. “Obviously, getting drafted by the Titans, number one, is our first choice. Everyone wants to be the number one pick, and that’s our goal,” Rosenhaus said without hesitation when asked about Carter’s ideal destination. And it’s business, not just prestige. “No state taxes. With the Titans,” he continued. Big Carter, Carter’s dad, added, “Which city? What state?” Drew informed, “Nashville, Tennessee. No state taxes. So we like that.”

However, the Titans were not the only team on the list. When Rosenhaus began dissecting the clubs that were lingering in the top five, the fire really started to build. New York Giants and Cleveland, too? The man himself gave them detailed scouting reports. On the Browns, Rosenhaus laid it out: “The Browns have shown that they have the ability to be a good team. Kevin Stefanski was Coach of the Year two years ago. Jim Schwartz was Assistant Coach of the Year two years ago. They’ve got Myles Garrett, the highest-paid defensive player in football. Combining Abdul with Garrett in that scheme will be scary.” He wasn’t finished: “They have a great fan base. They’re incredible fans. The Dawg Pound. Reminiscent of Penn State and their great love for Penn State.”  In other words, Carter moving to Cleveland turns the prospect of a defensive fever dream into reality.

Next came the Giants, a team that offers more than just fit—they offer legacy. “It’s a historic franchise,” Rosenhaus said. “The Giants have a legendary owner in the Mara family. They have a great tradition with Lawrence Taylor. We expect you to be that type of impactful guy.” That’s a big ask, but Abdul Carter’s game justifies the comparison. Off the field, it doesn’t hurt that New York is a gold mine. “It’s a huge market,” he added. “You make great money off the field. It’s close to home. They play in New Jersey, less than two hours away.”

The Patriots also received their flowers. A historic triumph and a huge market for media. Plus, a pass rusher is desperately needed. “Mike Vrabel’s the new coach. He’s a defensive guru,” Rosenhaus said. “They’re one of the teams that have struggled the most in rushing the quarterback.”

However, not every team received a cordial greeting. The Cowboys and Bears sent out invitations. Carter’s camp refused. “Because they’re not in the top five picks, we’re not going to visit. We’ve invited them to come see Abdul here, but Abdul’s time is precious, and we’re really focused on the teams most likely to draft you in the top few picks.” In other words, don’t call if you’re not serious.

Abdul Carter’s next stop could shift the NFL’s power grid

The only thing left to do is wait for the moment that transforms Abdul Carter’s life, now that the power moves and preferences have been established. The wait won’t be long unless something crazy happens. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Carter has a 7.00 prospect grade, making him a player who might make the Pro Bowl. His resume is absurd: No. 1 in tackles for loss. In terms of quarterback pressures, No. 2. In sacks, No. 7. All of this occurred during his first full season of playing edge following his switch from linebacker.

The mock drafts back it up—both ESPN and USA TODAY Sports Network project the Giants will take him at No. 3 overall.

And the mock drafts support that ideology. Both ESPN and USA TODAY Sports Network predict that he will be selected by the Giants at No. 3 overall. Describing him as the draft’s greatest pure athlete with untapped potential. Art Stapleton commented, “There’s no telling how good he can be with more experience at the position.” NFL.com drops him one spot earlier—to Cleveland at No. 2—saying the opportunity to pair Carter with Myles Garrett is simply “too tempting to resist.”

Tyler Dragon of USA TODAY even commented on the Browns’ fit, describing it as Abdul Carter’s ideal landing spot: “With Garrett commanding much of the attention, Carter would see fewer double teams… Carter and Garrett would provide one of the top edge rush duos in the NFL.” Though the Patriots at No. 4 are still a dark horse. New coach, defensive roots, enormous market, and an actual necessity.

Abdul Carter is not in doubt. He is a powerful statement. Pro Bowl talent, insane athleticism, and the kind of controlled wrath. And his camp has now issued a final notice: the top clubs must either step up or move aside. Because Carter isn’t waiting to be found.