Giants Star Delivers Eye-Opening Message to Rookie Abdul Carter

The New York Giants are bolstering an already formidable defensive line with the addition of rookie edge rusher Abdul Carter — and Kayvon Thibodeaux is ready to help him get up to speed. As the No. 3 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, Carter enters the league with sky-high expectations, especially in a market as intense as New York.

Fortunately for Carter, he’ll be lining up alongside established stars like Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns, and Thibodeaux, giving him a strong foundation to make an immediate impact.

Thibodeaux, a former No. 5 overall pick himself, understands the weight that comes with being drafted to change a franchise’s future — especially in a city desperate for results. Though Thibodeaux has yet to fully meet those lofty expectations, he’s benefiting from the team’s stacked defensive front and is now offering guidance to Carter as he begins his NFL journey.

Speaking during minicamp, Thibodeaux shared the advice he gave the rookie:

“Just keep doing what you’re doing,” he said. “When you get to this level, the lights are brighter and the pressure’s higher. But staying true to what got you here and keeping your focus on the grind — that’s key. The moment you start worrying about everyone else’s expectations, you start to lose yourself.”

Thibodeaux emphasized that he plays his best when he tunes out the noise and leans into his own strengths — a message he hopes Carter takes to heart.

While drafting Carter did spark some questions about Thibodeaux’s role moving forward, the Giants quickly picked up his fifth-year option, keeping him in blue through at least 2026. The move solidifies a deep rotation that now features three starting-caliber edge rushers for two main spots. The team is expected to deploy creative packages, including three-edge sets on obvious passing downs, with Carter potentially blitzing from the A-gap thanks to his background as an off-ball linebacker.

Thibodeaux praised Carter’s versatility and mindset so far:

“He gives us another weapon up front. He’s been handling his responsibilities well — inside, outside — and he’s just doing his thing. It’s exciting to have someone like him added to the mix.”

Last season, the Giants’ pass rush failed to live up to expectations. But with Carter and third-rounder Darius Alexander now in the fold, the excuses are gone. This unit is primed to jump from good to great — and every player, including Thibodeaux, stands to benefit.

Thibodeaux summed up his impression of the rookie in just a few words:

“Man, he’s a beast. Fast, explosive, smart. I’m excited.”