Giants' Abdul Carter shines at edge in Week 4 win over Chargers

Abdul Carter, the New York Giants third overall pick, led a dominant pass-rush performance in Week 4, pressuring Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert repeatedly and helping the Giants secure their first win of the season. Playing primarily on the edge after a snap-location change by coaches, Carter finished the game with five quarterback hits, eight pressures and multiple plays credited as quick quarterback pressures, according to Next Gen Stats.

The coaching adjustment moved Carter from an inside linebacker alignment, where he played extensively in Week 3, back to the defensive line for 42 snaps. Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen and head coach Brian Daboll cited matchup considerations and the availability of personnel when making the change. The move coincided with an early injury to Chargers left tackle Joe Alt, after which New York’s front four, including veterans Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence, rotated to create favorable one-on-one matchups.

Carter’s eight pressures and his 92.1 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus ranked among the top marks for edge defenders in Week 4. Next Gen Stats labeled seven of Carter’s pressures as quick...