What happened to Giants rookie Abdul Carter?

Carter was benched for the first 6 defensive snaps against the Packers due to a "mistake" he made during the week that was "detrimental to the team."

What is the current state of the Giants' defense?

The Giants' defense, including players like Carter and Brian Burns, has struggled to make big plays late in games, allowing the Packers to score the game-winning touchdown in the final minutes.

Home / Sports / Giants Rookie Defender Benched for "Detrimental" Mistake, Vows to Keep Playing

Giants Rookie Defender Benched for "Detrimental" Mistake, Vows to Keep Playing

Q: How did Giants interim coach Mike Kafka respond to the Carter incident?

Kafka said he "loves" Carter and is "excited to watch him attack this week of practice and continue to work and grow and be the great player that I think he is."

17 Nov

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Summary

Rookie DE Carter benched for first 6 defensive snaps
Carter admits to making a "mistake" during the week
Interim coach Kafka says he "loves" Carter and expects him to keep improving

Giants Rookie Defender Benched for "Detrimental" Mistake, Vows to Keep Playing

On November 17, 2025, the New York Giants faced off against the Green Bay Packers, and rookie defensive end Abdul Carter found himself in an unexpected situation. Carter, who was expected to start in place of the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux, did not play any of the six plays on the Packers' opening drive. Instead, Tomon Fox took the field for the first six defensive snaps before the Packers punted.

Interim head coach Mike Kafka labeled Carter's absence a "coach's decision," revealing that Carter had made "a mistake during the week that was detrimental to the team." Carter acknowledged the incident, saying, "I made a mistake during the week that was detrimental to the team. That was the consequence of it. Got to live with it."

Despite the disciplinary action, Kafka expressed his admiration for Carter, stating, "I love Abdul and what he brings to this team. The skillset he has, this guy loves ball. I'm excited to watch him attack this week of practice and continue to work and grow and be the great player that I think he is."