At Penn State’s Pro Day on March 28, 2025, Abdul Carter, a standout defensive end for the Nittany Lions, was noticeably absent from the testing and drills conducted for NFL scouts. While several of his teammates from the 2024 season participated in the event inside Holuba Hall, Carter made the decision to sit out. His absence was due to ongoing rehabilitation from a shoulder injury he sustained during Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl win against Boise State.
Despite not participating in the drills, Carter took the time to meet with the assembled media after the event. He explained that his recovery process is still a work in progress, and he felt it was important to focus on fully rehabilitating his shoulder before participating in any physical tests. Carter’s decision shows a level of maturity and awareness of the importance of his health for his future career in professional football.
Carter’s choice to skip the Pro Day workouts comes at a critical time as he looks to prepare for the NFL draft. His performance in college, especially during the 2024 season, had already caught the attention of NFL scouts, so missing Pro Day activities will not necessarily hinder his prospects. Instead, Carter is taking the necessary steps to ensure that he is in top physical condition when he does take the field for any upcoming evaluations or workouts.
The Pro Day event saw several other members of the 2024 Penn State football team participate in various drills, providing NFL scouts with a final look at their skills before the draft. While Carter was absent from those activities, his absence did not overshadow the impressive performances of his teammates. The focus remained on the potential of these athletes to make an impact at the next level, with scouts closely observing their talents and athleticism.
In the end, Carter’s decision to prioritize his recovery is understandable given the long-term nature of his career goals. As he continues his rehabilitation, he will likely have other opportunities to showcase his abilities to NFL teams. For now, Carter is focused on returning to full health, knowing that his performance in the upcoming months will be a key factor in determining his professional future.
