“It’s Time for Me to Let Go”: Abdul Carter Announces Departure from New York Giants in Emotional Statement
By Daniel Whitaker | June 7, 2025 | East Rutherford, NJ
In a heartfelt and emotional statement that stunned fans and teammates alike, Abdul Carter, the rising linebacker and one of the New York Giants’ most promising defensive players, announced on Friday that he is officially stepping away from the team—effective immediately.
Standing at the podium in the team’s training facility, with his head bowed and his voice choked with emotion, the 22-year-old former Penn State star said words few expected to hear so early in his career.
“I love this game. I love this team. But it’s time for me to let go,” Carter said, fighting back tears. “There comes a time when you have to listen to yourself, your body, and your heart—and mine is telling me this is the right decision.”
His statement, delivered in front of a packed press room, reverberated through the sports world. The news of Carter’s sudden exit left fans stunned, analysts speculating, and teammates visibly emotional. No injury report or trade rumors had preceded the announcement. It was, to most, completely out of the blue.
A Sudden and Emotional Exit
Abdul Carter was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Regarded as one of the most physically gifted linebackers in recent memory, his rookie season was seen as a breakout campaign. Carter recorded 94 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 interceptions—becoming a rare defensive bright spot on a Giants team that struggled throughout the season.
His aggressive style, athleticism, and football IQ had quickly made him a fan favorite. Giants supporters saw in Carter what they hadn’t seen in years: a young, high-ceiling defender with leadership potential.
So why walk away?
“It’s not about stats. It’s not about playing time or contracts,” Carter clarified during the press conference. “It’s about mental clarity. It’s about peace. It’s about stepping away before the game takes more than it gives.”
Carter Opens Up About Mental Health
In the most powerful portion of his announcement, Carter revealed that his decision was rooted in his mental health struggles—something he admitted he had wrestled with silently since college.
“Since my sophomore year at Penn State, I’ve battled anxiety, overwhelming pressure, and moments where I felt completely lost—even in my success,” Carter said. “I put on the armor every day, went to war, smiled for the cameras, but deep down I was struggling.”
His honesty earned a wave of support online and among teammates.
Veteran cornerback Adoree’ Jackson, who was present at the announcement, later posted on social media:
“Proud of my brother Abdul. Takes courage to do what he just did. Mental health is no joke, and stepping away to protect your peace is the ultimate sign of strength.”
Carter also thanked the Giants’ mental health staff, especially team psychologist Dr. Renee Myers, for “being there on the worst days and the quiet days.”
Giants Organization Responds with Support
Shortly after Carter’s announcement, the New York Giants released an official statement:
“We fully support Abdul Carter in his decision to prioritize his health and well-being. He is a remarkable young man with incredible talent and an even greater heart. He will always be part of the Giants family, and we wish him nothing but peace and fulfillment on his journey forward.”
Giants head coach Brian Daboll appeared at a brief media availability and called Carter “one of the most driven and introspective players I’ve ever coached.”
“He has a wisdom well beyond his years,” Daboll said. “And while we’ll miss him on the field, we stand behind his decision one hundred percent.”
From Philadelphia Roots to the NFL Spotlight
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Abdul Carter grew up idolizing NFL greats like Ray Lewis and Brian Dawkins. He attended La Salle College High School, where his dominance as a linebacker earned him national attention.
Carter then committed to Penn State, where he became a defensive phenom almost immediately. Known for his explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline range, he racked up accolades including Freshman All-American, Butkus Award semifinalist, and All-Big Ten honors. He was considered a sure-fire NFL talent, and scouts frequently noted his leadership, work ethic, and motor.
The Giants, rebuilding after a series of tough seasons, saw Carter as a foundational piece for the future. And for a year, he was just that—until now.
The Broader Conversation on Athlete Mental Health
Carter’s announcement reignites a growing and necessary conversation about the toll professional sports can take on athletes—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
His decision mirrors those of other high-profile athletes in recent years who stepped back in their prime, including Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and NFL wide receiver Calvin Ridley (who took time away during the 2021 season for mental health reasons).
Sports psychologist Dr. Jaylen Carmichael commended Carter’s decision in a panel appearance on ESPN:
“What Abdul did today—speaking out publicly, choosing wellness over pressure—is as courageous as anything he’s done on the field. He’s showing younger athletes that stepping away is not quitting; it’s choosing to live a fuller life.”
What’s Next for Abdul Carter?
Though Carter made it clear that he is stepping away from football “indefinitely,” he left the door cracked open for a future return—but made no promises.
“I don’t know what comes next. Maybe I’ll coach, maybe I’ll go back to school, maybe I’ll just be Abdul for a while. And honestly? That sounds pretty good,” he said with a smile.
He added that he plans to work on projects involving youth mentorship, mental health advocacy, and possibly returning to Philadelphia to serve his community.
“I want to help young athletes see their worth beyond the game,” he said. “Because we are more than jerseys and helmets.”
A Legacy Not Measured in Seasons
Though his NFL career lasted just one season, Abdul Carter leaves behind an impact greater than any stat line could summarize. In just one year, he became a symbol of hope for the Giants, a role model to young fans, and now, a voice for mental health in a league still grappling with how to support its players off the field.
His locker, his jersey, and his presence will be missed in East Rutherford—but the message he delivered on June 7 may echo for years to come.
“I came to the NFL to chase greatness,” Carter said as he stepped off the podium. “Turns out, real greatness is knowing when to let go.”
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