Abdul Carter’s Injury Update

Abdul Carter has been marked as questionable on this week’s injury report due to a hamstring issue.

The Giants’ No. 3 overall pick has managed just half a sack in his rookie season. Still, his performance on the field has impressed the coaching staff, and he displayed no noticeable issues during the observed practice sessions.

“Abdul is doing a great job,” commented outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen. “He had some of those ‘wow’ moments from training camp. For some reason, he hasn’t had as many chances for sacks.”

Bullen also mentioned that Carter’s presence was a factor in Brian Burns’ release, noting, “It’s just about pass rushing. Sometimes, opportunities will come to you.”

It’s been noticeable that Carter hasn’t yet notched more sacks, especially considering he was among the sack leaders at Penn State last year.

Bullen referred to Carter as an “elite” finisher, claiming he can still make an impact without tallying sacks.

“As a coach, focus on technique and energy, and the results will follow,” Bullen explained. “Pass rushing is about disrupting the quarterback. He’s done that. Everyone wants sacks, but a sack doesn’t always mean it’s been a great rush. I think his numbers will improve.”

The Giants will be without Jon-Michael Schmitz this Sunday, as he has been ruled out after remaining in concussion protocol for a week following an injury during last Thursday’s game against the Eagles.

Wide receiver Darius Slayton missed practice due to a hamstring injury and is also listed as questionable.

Carter isn’t the only Giant facing struggles regarding sacks this season.

Last year, Dexter Lawrence achieved a career-high nine sacks and eight tackles for loss, but no defensive linemen have recorded those stats in the first six games this season. Still, defensive line coach Andre Patterson insists that those figures aren’t a concern.

He pointed out that the attention opposing offenses pay to Lawrence is a key reason why players like Carter and Brian Burns find success.

“Call everyone who plays and ask if Dexter Lawrence is still dominant,” Patterson said. “No one else in the league gets double-teamed as much as he does. That’s why Carter’s success is so impacted by the focus on Dexter.”

He also mentioned that Lawrence is among the few nose guards still active during third downs.

“People may not have seen him get sacks last year, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t performing at a high level. He will get there,” Patterson noted.

Demaryius Thomas Memorial

Before Sunday’s game, the Broncos honored the late Demaryius Thomas by inducting him into their Ring of Honor. A ceremony commemorating the tenth anniversary of their Super Bowl 50 victory will take place at halftime.

Giants long snapper Casey Kreiter, who was Thomas’ teammate in Denver, reflected on their time together. “It’s special for me to be there,” Kreiter shared. “When I joined, my locker was next to DT. He treated me and my family as family. His passing was tragic; I think about him often.”

“He had an infectious smile and a great laugh. While I’ll take a moment to appreciate that, my focus is on winning the game,” he added.

Additionally, defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (neck) is listed as questionable, as is outside linebacker Victor Dimukeje.