Abdul Carter Learns the Hard Way as Giants GM Joe Schoen Weighs In on Rookie’s Growth and Future
The New York Giants are in the middle of a tough season, but the focus this week wasn’t just on the scoreboard. Rookie edge rusher Abdul Carter found himself on the sideline for the entire first quarter of Monday’s 33-15 loss to the Patriots-a disciplinary move that caught plenty of attention.
Reports surfaced before kickoff that Carter had been late to a team meeting-again. And while the Giants haven’t made a formal statement about the reason behind his benching, the timing speaks volumes. The message was clear: no matter how talented you are, accountability still matters.
On Tuesday, general manager Joe Schoen addressed the situation head-on. His tone was firm but understanding, echoing the balance NFL teams constantly try to strike with young players-especially those thrust into the spotlight in a high-pressure market like New York.
“Abdul is smart and understands the magnitude of his actions,” Schoen said. “It’s not always going to be perfect.
People make mistakes. Part of our job is to develop them as football players, but also as people.”
That’s a sentiment you’ll hear often from front offices, but Schoen’s comments carried weight. He wasn’t just defending a player-he was outlining a philosophy.
The Giants aren’t giving up on Carter. They’re investing in his growth, on and off the field.
Carter, for his part, didn’t speak immediately after the game, but when he did address reporters in the locker room later in the week, he showed some maturity in how he handled the situation.
“I take it,” Carter said, referring to advice from veteran teammates. “The guys who say that, those are guys I look up to, guys I respect.
So, if they say something like that, I’m going to look at myself first, like, ‘Alright, what am I doing? How can I get better?’
and prove to them that I can earn their respect and go out and be who I’m supposed to be.”
That’s the kind of response you want to hear from a young player learning the ropes. Carter also pointed to the support system around him, saying, “I have plenty of guys in here that I can look to. I got coaches that give me great advice.”
It’s a moment of growth for a rookie who’s still finding his footing in the league. And while the Giants’ season has been filled with turbulence, the development of players like Carter is a crucial part of the bigger picture.
Kafka’s Audition Continues as Giants Look Ahead to 2026
While Carter’s situation drew headlines, Schoen also touched on the team’s coaching future-a storyline that’s been brewing since Brian Daboll was dismissed following a Week 10 collapse against the Lions.
Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka stepped in as interim head coach, and though the Giants have dropped three straight under his leadership, Schoen made it clear Kafka is getting a legitimate shot.
“He’s getting a real look right now. Hands-on,” Schoen said. “He’s a good coach, good leader and, again, he’s getting an opportunity over these next four weeks to continue to lead the team.”
Kafka’s record might not look pretty, but the front office is evaluating more than just wins and losses. With a young roster and a tough schedule, this stretch is about seeing how Kafka handles adversity, manages the locker room, and puts his stamp on the team’s identity.
The Giants will return to action on December 14 against the Washington Commanders. It’s another chance for Kafka to make his case-and for players like Carter to show they’re learning, growing, and ready to be part of what the Giants are trying to build.
Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET on FOX.