When New York Giants fans tuned into the game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, they were surprised to see the team’s rookie linebacker, Abdul Carter, missing from the field. A strange reason for his absence was later reported, which left fans intrigued, and now Carter has fired back with an explosive post on social media.
Why Was Abdul Carter Benched for the Giants’ Game?
With Kayvon Thibodeaux absent, fans expected an increased role for the rookie linebacker, but Carter was instead benched by the Giants’ interim head coach, Mike Kafka, for the opening drive. The 22-year-old player eventually joined the defensive unit and recorded two pressures and one tackle, but the question of why he wasn’t on the field from the start was still a topic of conversation.
Amid the discussion, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reported a bizarre reason for Carter’s benching. He noted that the Giants linebacker was asleep in the facility during a team walkthrough earlier in the week.
“Sources: Giants rookie LB Abdul Carter was benched for the opening drive of yesterday’s loss to the Packers for missing a walk-through. Carter was asleep in the team facility at the time of the walk-through,” Duggan wrote on X.
Sources: Giants rookie LB Abdul Carter was benched for the opening drive of yesterday’s loss to the Packers for missing a walk-through. Carter was asleep in the team facility at the time of the walk-through: https://t.co/3n1jWssoYO
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) November 17, 2025
However, Carter didn’t hold back when he came across Duggan’s tweet. He replied to clear the air, admitting his mistake but correcting the record on what happened. “Was not sleep, actually doing recovery. Nonetheless that’s on ME!” Carter replied.
Was not sleep, actually doing recovery. Nonetheless that’s on ME!
— Abdul Carter (@1NCRDB1) November 17, 2025
As Duggan’s report became a hot topic, Carter, who clearly disliked it, fired back again with a cryptic tweet. The post seemed to target Duggan and others for spreading misinformation. “When the hate don’t work they start telling lies!” Carter wrote.
When the hate don’t work they start telling lies!
— Abdul Carter (@1NCRDB1) November 17, 2025
The Giants ultimately suffered a 27-20 defeat against the Packers. Following the loss, Kafka was asked about Carter and confirmed he decided to sit the rookie, though he did not clarify the specific reason why.
What Did Mike Kafka Say About the Rookie’s Performance?
Although Kafka held Carter responsible for his mistake, the coach also took time after the game to praise the talented defensive weapon.
“I’m really happy about Abdul. Excited to watch him continue to grow and continue to play a lot more as a pro,” Kafka said. “I love Abdul and what he brings to this team. The skillset he has. This guy loves ball. And I’m excited to watch him attack this week of practice and continue to work and grow to be the great player I think he is.”
Carter has been a key part of the Giants’ defense, which currently ranks 28th on PFSN’s Defense Impact. While he has been a presence, his ability to produce sacks has been somewhat disappointing. Fans are hopeful the linebacker will work on his weak areas and be more punctual to avoid being put on the bench by Kafka again.
