Is Abdul Carter declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft? Insider makes massive prediction on Penn State’s star DE

Last week, I mentioned one of the top blocking prospects from the underclassmen ranks was set to enter the draft.

Now comes word that one of the best defensive prospects in college football and a player I expect to be graded as an early first-round pick will also throw his hat into the ring.

Is Abdul Carter declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft?

Word circulating in the scouting and agent community is that Abdul Carter, the dynamic edge rusher/linebacker from Penn State, will enter the draft.

The belief is that Carter has already decided on representation for the next level, and sources tell me Carter was seen with his future agent after the Nittany Lions’ recent victory over USC in Los Angeles.

Abdul Carter puts up big numbers that ultimately skyrocket his draft stock

Carter, who has been a dynamic defender for Penn State since he was a true freshman in 2022, received first-round grades from scouts before the season, which is quite unusual for a true junior.

He started six games as a freshman, finishing with 56 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and 6.5 sacks as well as four PBUs. In six games this year, his numbers include 27 tackles, 9.5 TFLs, four sacks and three PBUs.

Unlike the first two years, when he played more of a traditional linebacker position in the Penn State defense, Carter has been used up at the line of scrimmage coming out of a three-point stance this season.

He's an athletic and versatile defender who shows the ability to make plays in space and stack against the run, as well as rush the passer.

Justifiably drawing comparisons to past Penn State greats such as Micah Parson and LaVar Arrington, Carter is presently graded as the top overall player on my Sportskeeda draft board.

Also Read: Ashton Jeanty 2025 NFL Draft projections: Ravens, Chargers among top landing spots