Giants' Abdul Carter Explains Why NFL DPOY Award is 'Absolutely' Possible Ahead of 2026 Season

New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter feels he is ready to contend for an individual honor in his second NFL season.

"I want to be Defensive Player of the Year, for sure," Carter told reporters Friday about his goals (h/t SNY).

When asked if he thought he could be named DPOY in 2026, Carter answered, "Absolutely."

About why he could win the award, Carter said, "Just my process, and knowing who I can be as a person, and the belief in myself.

"I know what I'm capable of, and I know if I put the work in and believe in myself, trust in myself, trust in my teammates, trust in my coaching, I can be where I want to be."

Carter was drafted by the Giants with the No. 3 selection of the 2025 draft. He recorded 4.0 sacks and 43 tackles (seven for loss) to go with 23 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries in 17 games last season.

Coach John Harbaugh said Thursday the Giants are planning to set up Carter for more opportunities to be a "complete player" during his second pro season.

"All downs, all situations, being a complete player on the edge," Harbaugh said (h/t SNY). "And we'll move him around, too.

"That includes even dropping him into coverage, sometimes. All those things. Play the run, rush the passer. All the movements, stunts, things like that. Cover for guys on movements. All those things that he's determined to do, I've heard him say it many times, to be a complete player."

The Giants started training camp Tuesday in West Virginia. The team is set to open the preseason Aug. 15 against the Minnesota Vikings before Carter gets his first opportunity to show off his new role in the regular season with a Sept. 13 Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.