Abdul Carter Proves Disruptive Force for Giants Despite Low Sack Count
The second-year pass rusher is earning high marks for his pressure generation, even as opponents double-team him due to injuries elsewhere on the defensive line.
Despite not recording a sack in the New York Giants' Week 4 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, pass rusher Abdul Carter earned the highest Pro Football Focus grade among NFL defenders that week, with a 90.1 mark. This performance highlights the Giants' emphasis on the overall disruption of their pass rush rather than solely relying on sack numbers.
Carter's increased impact has come at a time when he is drawing more attention from opposing offenses. With veteran pass rusher Brian Burns sidelined for the season due to a torn ACL, teams have begun to double-team Carter more frequently. Head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged Carter's growing role, stating, "He's been disruptive every game — run and pass. He probably had his best game this last game, no question about it." Harbaugh added that Carter appears to relish the increased attention and is expected to rise to the occasion.
Even with a single sack through the early part of the season and the Giants' defense tallying only three sacks overall, Carter is demonstrating his effectiveness. Since entering the league, he leads all NFL players with 57 quick quarterback pressures, recorded in under 2.5 seconds. Against the Cardinals, Carter registered eight such pressures, tied for the fifth most in a single game by any player since 2019, according to NextGenStats. This ability to consistently pressure the quarterback, even without finishing the play with a sack, disrupts offensive rhythm and passing efficiency.
Retired NFL players Chris and Kyle Long have praised Carter's disruptive qualities. Chris Long, a former Pro Bowl defensive end, noted, "Sacks are overrated. He has one sack this year. He is one of the best rushers in the league when it comes to winning rushes and winning them fast."
Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson's increased blitz rate appears to be contributing to the confusion of opposing offenses, which in turn seems to be freeing up Carter. The Giants will face a new challenge against the Commanders, whose offensive line has allowed the second-fewest sacks in the league. Carter stated the team has a plan to handle the Commanders' quarterback, Jayden Daniels, who is mobile and willing to scramble. "At the end of the day, it’s about rushing smart and rushing together," Carter said.
The development of rookie linebacker Arvell Reese could also help alleviate pressure on Carter. "The better he plays, the more it helps me. The better I play, the more it helps him. It goes hand in hand," Carter explained. He also mentioned receiving a supportive text from Brian Burns before the recent game, which motivated him to play harder.
The Giants currently hold a 3-1 record, and Carter's improved play is seen as a significant factor. Reflecting on the team's early success compared to the previous season's 4-13 record, Carter noted, "All the guys who were here last year, you can see it just means a little bit more knowing that we went through (4-13) last year. We’re starting to stack some wins. We like this feeling. We’ve got to keep this feeling."