James Franklin praises Abdul Carter for changing positions this spring

Abdul Carter has been one of the best players on the Penn State Nittany Lions‘ defense since he first arrived in State College. Now, head coach James Franklin is asking him to take on a new challenge by moving to be an edge rusher.

With Spring ball in full swing, Franklin praised Carter. In particular, he explained that the change of positions is going incredibly well despite how different the two positions are.

“As you guys all know, Abdul is very, very talented,” James Franklin said. “The transition has probably gone better and faster than I thought it would. It’s a different world up there [at defensive end]. It sounds good, but it’s a major difference.”

Abdul Carter came to Penn State as a four-star recruit in the Class of 2022, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. At that time, he was a linebacker, which is the position he’s played since he got to Penn State. During that time, Carter played in 26 games. He also had 104 total tackles, 16 tackles for a loss, and 11 sacks during that time.

“And he’s really transitioned very, very well,” Franklin said. “He’s been physical. He’s been explosive off of the edge. There are still some things he’s learning, but his transition has probably gone better and faster than anticipated.”

The move to edge rusher isn’t the only major change for Penn State on the defensive side of the ball. The Nittany Lions also have a new defensive coordinator in Tom Allen, who will help to contribute to a new-look defense for Penn State. That defense will be reliant on Carter being successful.

Fans will have the chance to see Abdul Carter at defensive end at the Blue-White Spring Game on April 13, 2024.

James Franklin explains Abdul Carter’s transition from linebacker to defensive end

The change for Abdul Carter is one that James Franklin previously explained, saying that he always thought he was a better fit as an edge rusher.

“I remember when we recruited Abdul, I thought he was a defensive end. And Abdul and dad were adamant that he was a linebacker. The reality is we just wanted him in our program and knew he was going to be a really good player wherever he decided to play. But this wasn’t really something from us. This was Abdul really wanted to make this move. I think for a number of reasons. And we’re excited about it,” Franklin said.

“So I think has a chance to be a win-win for everybody and I know Abdul’s excited about it and we’re looking forward to having the opportunity to work with him. But it is a big change. He’s never really done this before. And it is a big change. It’s not just like you make the decision to move and you snap your fingers and automatically you’re a defensive end. It’s a different world the closer you get to the ball. Just like it’s a different world if you move back to the secondary. So we’re excited about watching his development and growth and should be exciting.”