Browns GM Says Abdul Carter Injury Won't Be 'Prohibitive To a Long, Successful Career'

Cleveland Browns general manager is not worried about Penn State's Abdul Carter dealing with a stress reaction in his foot.

“Not going to be prohibitive to a long, successful career," the Browns general manager said, per ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi.

The junior defensive end wrapped up his third season with Penn State by recording 43 solo tackles, 12 sacks and two forced fumbles.

Carter was diagnosed with a stress reaction on Feb. 26 after undergoing tests to determine the severity of the injury. At the time, it was unclear whether surgery would be required.

“There are mixed opinions on whether he needs surgery, and we will figure that out in the near future,” Carter’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus said, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Since the diagnosis, doctors have advised Carter against surgery and he continues to recover. He did not participate in the Nittany Lions' Pro Day on Friday but attended with his family.

His agent reinforced that the injury will not hinder Carter, stating, "I couldn't be more confident that this will be a nonfactor where he's drafted," per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Bleacher Report Scouting Department projected Carter to go No. 4 to the New England Patriots in its latest mock draft, but Carter continues to make his case for being the No. 1 pick.

"I think just my overall impact on the game," Carter said, on Friday. "My versatility. I can play multiple positions, and I feel like most importantly I step up when I'm needed the most when crunch time comes around. When you need somebody to make that big play, I feel like I'm the guy who makes that big play."

The Browns, who hold the No. 2 pick in the draft, recognize Carter's potential and are not concerned about the impact of his injury, placing him on the team’s "short list" if they stay at No. 2, per ESPN's Field Yates, ahead of the 2025 draft, set for April 24-25.