Former Penn State star and possible top NFL Draft pick Abdul Carter has a stress reaction in his right foot that may require surgery, a person briefed on the matter confirmed Wednesday. The injury was discovered during medical tests at the NFL combine Wednesday morning.
ESPN first reported the news and stated that Carter’s agent Drew Rosenhaus said that “there are mixed opinions on whether he needs surgery.” Rosenhaus also said there is a chance Carter chooses not to undergo surgery. If he does, Carter would have a screw inserted into his foot and would be expected to recover in eight weeks.
The 6-foot-3, 250-pound edge is the reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Carter moved from linebacker to defensive end this past season and finished with 23 1/2 tackles for loss and 12 sacks.
Carter might not have elite size, but his explosiveness is special and allows him to win with initial burst, edge speed or power through contact. His rush plan and sequencing continue to improve with his reps, and he projects as the type of pass rusher that can force offenses to alter their game plan. — Dane Brugler, NFL Draft writer
(Photo: Justin Casterline / Getty Images)