Giants Rookie Abdul Carter Benched Again, But Makes Impact in Return vs. Patriots
It’s been a rollercoaster few weeks for Giants rookie linebacker Abdul Carter, and Monday night was no exception. For the second time in three games, Carter started the night on the bench-this time against the Patriots-and didn’t see the field until the Giants were already staring down a 17-0 deficit in the second quarter.
The decision to keep Carter sidelined early wasn’t injury-related. Head coach Mike Kafka made it clear: it was a coaching choice.
When asked about the move, Kafka didn’t offer specifics, simply saying, “That was my decision to do that.” He doubled down when pressed, adding, “Those are tough decisions to make...
I thought that was the best thing for the team.”
Carter, for his part, didn’t offer much in the way of explanation. When asked what led to his benching, the rookie kept it brief: “S-t happens.”
This wasn’t the first time Carter found himself in this situation. Back in Week 11, he also sat out the opening series and later admitted he had made a mistake that was “detrimental to the team.” While no further details have emerged, the pattern is hard to ignore-Kafka is clearly trying to send a message to his young linebacker.
But once Carter got on the field Monday night, he didn’t sulk-he responded. He was credited with a sack, stopping Patriots quarterback Drake Maye for no gain on a scramble, and added four total tackles to his stat line. It wasn’t a game-changing performance, but it was a reminder of the kind of impact Carter can make when he’s locked in and playing to his potential.
The Giants spent a first-round pick on Carter for a reason-his athleticism, instincts, and upside are all there. But Kafka’s handling of him suggests this is about more than just what happens between the whistles. This is about accountability, professionalism, and setting a tone for the future.
For a team still trying to establish a new identity under Kafka’s leadership, these decisions matter. And for Carter, the message seems clear: talent alone won’t keep you on the field. The Giants are hoping this second wake-up call sticks.
There’s no doubting Carter’s ability. Now it’s about consistency-and trust.