Tag: Abdul Carter

  • Russell Wilson Sparks Giants Rebuild with Help from Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart

    Russell Wilson Sparks Giants Rebuild with Help from Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart

    As the summer break approaches, the New York Giants’ coaching staff is working behind the scenes to set the table for the season. Head coach Brian Daboll has been methodically guiding his team through this critical transition period, making sure every player, new and old, is on the same page and ready to go when training camp starts in late July.

    This mandatory minicamp is the last chance for adjustments before the real work begins. With limited contact practices in the spring, these sessions have been huge for team chemistry and tactical execution.

    Spring Practices: Building Chemistry Without Setbacks

    Despite the restrictions on physical contact in the spring, the Giants have made progress. The roster is relatively healthy with no major injury concerns from last season. This clean slate has allowed players to focus on learning schemes and building trust on the field.

    One of the biggest additions this offseason has been quarterback Russell Wilson, whose leadership is already changing the locker room culture. He brings experience and a winning mentality that resonates throughout the team.

    Russell Wilson: The Veteran Catalyst

    Wilson has fit in seamlessly into the Giants’ offense. He’s known for his poise under pressure and ability to elevate those around him and is already the emotional and strategic heart of the team. From film study to huddle leadership, his influence is visible in how younger players approach their roles.

    His veteran savvy matches the coaching staff’s vision perfectly and helps streamline offensive concepts and communication across units. For a team looking to turn the page after a few tough seasons, having a proven leader like Wilson at the helm feels like stability and direction.

    Rising Talent: Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart Shine

    While the Giants are leaning on Wilson’s experience, they’re also investing in the future — and it shows. First-round picks Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart are already making an impact.

    Carter, a versatile linebacker from Penn State, has brought an edge to the defense. His instincts and physicality show up even in non-contact situations, and he’s ready to go right now. Coaches are raving about his football IQ and natural ability to read plays.

    On offense, Dart, a developmental player, has shown some juice. His calmness and quickness have earned him praise from coaches and teammates. With Wilson’s guidance, he could be on his way to being a long-term piece of the Giants’ puzzle.

    Building a Winning Culture

    Minicamp is behind us, now it’s time for training camp in late July. That’s when the real work begins — full pads, contact practices, and preseason games will show us how far we’ve come.

    For now, the foundation is being laid. And if spring is any indication, Giants fans have reason to be excited.

    Building Toward Greatness

    The New York Giants aren’t rebuilding — they’re rebranding. With Russell Wilson at the helm and Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart on the rise, the future looks good.

    This isn’t about one year; it’s about being a winner for years to come. And with the right pieces in place, Big Blue Nation will soon be back on top.

  • Abdul Carter Shares Why He Loves His New Number

    Abdul Carter Shares Why He Loves His New Number

    When Abdul Carter stepped onto the field for his first rookie minicamp with the New York Giants, he did so wearing jersey No. 51. It wasn’t his first choice, but the young edge rusher is already embracing it as part of his journey in the NFL.

    The Journey to Jersey No. 51

    Carter’s initial hope was to wear a number that carried legacy and prestige—either No. 56, famously worn by Lawrence Taylor, or No. 11, retired for Phil Simms. Unfortunately, those numbers remain off-limits for now.

    Lawrence Taylor politely declined Carter’s request to unretire No. 56, encouraging him instead to make his own mark with a new number. Meanwhile, while Phil Simms expressed openness to allowing Carter to wear No. 11, his wife and daughter vetoed the idea, leaving the iconic digits untouched.

    So, why No. 51?

    “Pretty much what we had available,” Carter said with a smile during Friday’s media session at the Quest Diagnostics Center. “It was a good number.”

    Though it may not have been his dream number, Carter is determined to grow into it.

    “I feel good,” Carter said. “I feel like it’s going to have to grow on me a little bit, but it’s feeling good right now.”

    A Coach’s Perspective

    Head coach Brian Daboll isn’t concerned about the number on Carter’s back—he’s focused on the player wearing it.

    “Yeah, he’ll wear 51,” Daboll said. “I’m more concerned about the player and proving himself, so that’s what number he’s in, 51.”

    For Carter, this mindset aligns perfectly with his approach. He knows the number doesn’t define him—it’s his performance on the field that truly matters.

    “This is pretty much set,” Carter added. “I’m just happy to be out here playing football. That’s all I’m worried about.”

    Other Rookie Numbers and Adjustments

    Carter wasn’t the only rookie adjusting to a new number. Running back Cam Skattebo, who wore No. 4 at Arizona State, is now sporting No. 44—a change he admits isn’t ideal.

    “This is what I’m in for now,” Skattebo said. “We’ll see—it’s a temporary number. We’ll see what I end up with later in the season.”

    Quarterback Jaxson Dart, meanwhile, switched from his college No. 2 to No. 6 after Deonte Banks claimed the former. Dart remains undecided, saying:

    “Yeah, I think we’ll come to a final decision here soon. Quite honestly, I kind of have to just look at the pictures to see if I like myself in six.”

    Roster Moves and Contracts

    The Giants made several moves ahead of rookie camp. Three draft picks signed their rookie contracts: offensive lineman Marcus Mbow (fifth round), tight end Thomas Fidone II (seventh round), and defensive back Korie Black (seventh round).

    To create roster space, the team released veteran wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey, whom they signed two months ago. However, Humphrey’s departure might not be permanent—he could re-sign as early as Monday. Additionally, the Giants are considering adding Gabe Davis, recently cut by the Jaguars, to bolster their receiving corps.