Abdul Carter Named Preseason Breakout Player for 2026 NFL Season
New York Giants' edge rusher Abdul Carter has been named one of 10 preseason breakout players by Yahoo! Sports ahead of the upcoming season. The third overall pick in last year's draft, Carter struggled somewhat during his rookie campaign with only four sacks in 17 games, but showed promise with strong pressure numbers leading the NFL.
Carter's first season was notable for its contrast between high pressure numbers and relatively low sack totals. While he finished with just four sacks, he led the league with 48 quick pressures and a total of 72 quarterback pressures overall, ranking among the top in the NFL. These statistics suggest Carter’s potential to convert more pressures into sacks in his second year as he settles into the Giants' defenses.
Carter had an odd rookie season but is expected to significantly improve with new coaching under John Harbaugh and better continuity this year.Pressure Stats Impress Despite Low Sacks
The underlying pressure numbers of Carter's rookie campaign were impressive. He led the NFL in quick pressures, a statistic that indicates his consistent ability to get after quarterbacks early in plays. With second-year experience and improved support from coaches like Charlie Bullen and new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, Carter is anticipated to continue his stellar pressure production while converting more into sacks.
New Head Coach Harbaugh Hopes for Big Start
For the 2026 NFL season, New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh hopes a strong preseason for Carter will set the stage for a solid first year under new leadership. The return of outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen and the presence of veterans like Brian Burns and Tremaine Edmunds should help integrate Carter more effectively into the defensive lineup.
Giants Schedule Highlights
The 2026 New York Giants season starts on September 13 against the Dallas Cowboys. This early match-up will provide a good test for how well Carter and the rest of the defense perform after another offseason of refinement under John Harbaugh’s coaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question?
When does the 2026 NFL season begin for the New York Giants? The 2026 NFL regular season begins on September 13, when the New York Giants play against the Dallas Cowboys at 8:20 p.m. ET.