Carter shines in six snaps

Rookie Abdul Carter flashed in a limited debut, delivering three pressures on six snaps and showing positional versatility for the Giants.

Carter makes impact in six snaps Giants debut

Abdul Carter played six snaps for the Giants in the preseason opener against the Bills and produced three quarterback pressures. On two plays he won outside matches against Dion Dawkins, using inside moves to bend the edge and drive the pocket. In another rep he lined up as a three technique and beat OCyrus Torrence with a sharp first step, showing he can rush from multiple spots. The Giants also gave him a look that mixed edge rushing with interior pressure, a sign of early versatility.

Daboll said the plan is to keep testing the rookie in live reps, including upcoming joint practices with the Jets. The atmosphere at Highmark Stadium provided a noisy, full house environment that the team sees as a valuable proving ground for a first year quarterback like Jaxson Dart. The Bills game also included injury notes, with Dru Phillips among 15 teammates who did not play, underscoring the evolving depth picture as the preseason unfolds.

Carter's six snaps produced real audible proof that he can threaten a pro line from multiple angles. His burst and bend hint at a rush package that could trouble blockers who train for one dimensional speed. Yet the sample is tiny and the stakes are high, so the Giants should resist pressing him too soon. The real test will come with longer runs against higher level competition and more complex schemes that test his football IQ and endurance.

This moment should also spark a wider look at how the Giants deploy young linebackers in a defense that needs both blitz juice and run support. A careful balance between development and immediate contribution will matter as the roster moves through the summer and into the regular season. If Carter continues to respond well in practice and in live drills, his early spark could translate into a meaningful rotation option rather than a one off.

Highlights

The rookie has shown something to watch as the summer schedule expands.