The New York Giants are no strangers to building their defense around legendary players, and they may be about to find their next superstar in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Holding the third overall pick, the Giants are in a prime position to select a player who could redefine their defensive unit for years to come. That player is Abdul Carter, a standout linebacker from Penn State who has quickly risen to the top of many draft boards. Widely regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in this year’s class, some even consider Carter to be the top player, regardless of position.
The comparison between Carter and Lawrence Taylor—the Giants’ iconic Hall of Fame linebacker—is already gaining momentum. Taylor, often called “LT,” is widely considered one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, and his impact on the game is still felt today. The Giants, looking to reignite their defense, are hoping Carter can live up to the hype and potentially fill the immense shoes left by Taylor. His combination of size, speed, and instinctive playmaking ability has drawn comparisons to the Hall of Famer, and fans are already excited about the possibility of him joining the team.
During a recent pre-draft visit to the Giants’ facility, Carter took a photo of Taylor’s iconic image hanging in the building. Later, he shared the photo on social media, sparking speculation that he might be positioning himself to be the “Next LT.” The image of Taylor, paired with the caption, was enough to get Giants fans buzzing about the potential of Carter being the next great linebacker to wear Big Blue. Some see it as a sign that Carter is eager to join the franchise and that he recognizes the weight of the legacy he could inherit.
For the Giants, drafting Carter could be a transformative move. With the third overall pick, they are in an excellent spot to select him, especially since it’s expected that the Tennessee Titans (1) and the Cleveland Browns (2) will likely pick players at other positions. This gives the Giants a unique opportunity to snatch up a game-changing defensive talent like Carter, who could instantly elevate their defense and help them compete in the tough NFC East.
The excitement surrounding Carter’s potential is palpable. Fans are hoping that he can become the next face of the Giants’ defense, much like Taylor was for nearly two decades. As Carter looks to take his next step toward greatness, it’s clear that his dream of joining the Giants is becoming more of a reality—and if the stars align, he could soon be the one wearing the same jersey that Taylor made famous.
