Abdul Carter, above, a rookie linebacker for the New York Giants and alternative to the recent NFL draft. This week, he drew criticism when reports surfaced that he was caught sleeping during a walk-through practice. The attack occurred just a day before the Giants’ joint practice with the Green Bay Packers. Carter had been primed to start in place of the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux. Instead, he found himself riding the pine for the first series of the game, one that concluded with the Giants falling 27-22.
Carter said he wanted to speak out about it when he saw things getting reported all wrong, starting with him being there for the team’s practice Sunday. He shared that he was undergoing treatment back then. He made this clear to Head Coach Mike Kafka. That afternoon, Carter was able to speak with Kafka through FaceTime to explain the reports and absence from practice.
Kafka withdrew from any further discussion on the issue, saying it would remain in-house. On the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue, Carter made clear his intention to right the ship. “I don’t want anonymous sources to say these types of things about me that are untrue,” he said. It’s an honest admission that he’s willing to go to great lengths to correct any bad narratives out there about his professionalism and dedication to the team.
Carter was shocked to learn that Kafka had replaced the team’s normal walk-through practice with an optional session. Troy learned of this abrupt change only by arriving at his usual time for an outpatient infusion. He still called the incident an “honest mistake.” He wanted to make it clear that he never intended to skip practice or disrespect the guys on his team.
The rookie linebacker’s experience highlights the challenges faced by new players in adjusting to the NFL’s rapid pace and evolving schedules. With these opportunities in mind, Carter’s ready to just get back to playing the best football he can on the field. His long-term goal is to restore his standing with fans and fellow athletes.
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