Abdul Carter, the New York Giants’ promising linebacker and third overall pick from this year’s draft, found himself benched for the first quarter during Monday night’s game against the New England Patriots. The Giants would go on to lose that game 33-15. The narrative after the game shifted to focus on Carter’s lateness, leading to his short-lived benching.
Carter’s benching was a disciplinary action for intended and continued underperformance, enforced by interim coach Mike Kafka. This decision came after the linebacker’s tardy appearance to a team walk-through earlier in the week. For that first quarter, Kafka informed Carter that he would scout from the sideline. This unilateral decision was due to the advocacy and aggressive action taken by Carter. This wasn’t the first time Carter’s had to navigate through a loss of playing time with Kafka. He previously had been benched for the first series of a 22-0 loss to the Green Bay Packers on November 16 for similar infractions.
During his time out of the field in the 1st quarter, the Giants had defensive difficulties. They failed to stop the Patriots altogether, helping New England get out to an early lead. As soon as Carter got back to play, the impact was evident. He notched four tackles and a sack in just the final three quarters of play. This performance was a glimpse into potential game-changing impact he’ll have on the field.
Carter turned in a heroic effort after being benched. He took responsibility saying, “I let my team down.” He knew his lateness was harmful and stressed the importance of accountability among the squad.
“Like I said, I have to be better. I have to take pride in what I do, be where I have to be at. Simple as that.” – Abdul Carter
Carter’s discipline is a testament to Kafka’s dedication to keeping the team accountable and on-task. The interim coach defended his decision, stating, “That was my decision, my decision only. Anything else outside of it is going to be kept in-house.” Kafka noted Carter’s ability to impact the game upon returning: “Listen, when he came back in the game, you saw the kind of impact he had and the player this guy is.”
Even with the unfortunate injury news, Carter has been superb in his first season and regularly fills up the stat sheet. As it stands, he’s second on the Giants with 12 QB hits. He’s only been able to pick up half a sack in 12 games. The coaching staff seems excited about what he can bring when fully acclimated to the rigors of his new sport.
The Giants’ defeat at the hands of the Patriots was yet another blown chance for a club that continues to find the high road elusive so far this season. As they continue down this path, accountability and discipline will be key ingredients that will determine just how well they perform and succeed.
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