Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter dominated the second practice of the New York Giants’ training camp at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, clashing with Pro Bowl left tackle Andrew Thomas while drawing praise and a demand for consistency from head coach John Harbaugh on July 30.
Abdul Carter Rules Day 2 at The Greenbrier
The New York Giants saw their second practice of training camp turn into a showcase for second-year edge-rusher Abdul Carter. Working during team drills at The Sports Performance Center at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft repeatedly found his way into the backfield. His performance marked a commanding turnaround from a rookie campaign that saw him register only four sacks before finding his stride late in the year under interim coordinator Charlie Bullen following the firing of Shane Bowen.
Head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the defender’s disruptive presence while challenging him to elevate his weekly output. I think he would tell you, just a consistency level,
Harbaugh told reporters on Thursday, emphasizing the need for production on down after down after down. All downs, all situations, being a complete player on the edge.
The Trench Battle Between Carter and Andrew Thomas
The physical highlight of Thursday’s workout was a spirited matchup between Carter and All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas. The explosive defender won several reps against one of the league’s premier linemen, punctuating his wins with verbal jabs. Thomas, however, refused to take the bait.
“If we’re just playing, you won’t get me out of my character. It definitely frustrating them. Don’t say anything back. They just get pissed, they start complaining to the ref about holding.”
Andrew Thomas, New York Giants offensive tackle
Harbaugh noted that Carter benefits from going up against an elite tackle in Thomas, adding that the two competitors talked frequently throughout the session.
Roster Movement and Defensive Rotations
Harbaugh confirmed that the team views itself as having three starting outside linebackers in Brian Burns, Carter, and Kayvon Thibodeaux. We have three starters outside the linebacker.
Those are all starting football players.
Slice it how you want,
Harbaugh said regarding Thibodeaux, who made an impact play on Day 2 by intercepting a Jameis Winston pass at the line of scrimmage and returning it for a touchdown.
The competitive atmosphere also claimed its first roster casualty. Undrafted free agent defensive tackle Ben Barten was waived and replaced by linebacker Anfernee Orji. Meanwhile, undrafted kicker Dominic Zvada connected on a 57-yard field goal on the final play of practice, delivered after backup quarterback Brandon Allen clocked the ball with one second remaining.
Malik Nabers and Training Camp Health
Star wide receiver Malik Nabers participated in individual drills for the second day as he works his way back from a knee injury sustained in 2024.
Thursday’s practice was the first of the summer open to fans, drawing spectators to West Virginia under sunny skies.
