NFL News Roundup (March 28, 2025.): Top Prospect Abdul Carter to Miss Penn State's Pro Day Due to Shoulder Injury
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Abdul Carter, a standout edge rusher from Penn State and a projected top-five pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, will not participate in Penn State's Pro Day on Friday. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, announced that Carter is still rehabilitating a shoulder injury sustained during the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State. Rosenhaus indicated that Carter may arrange a private workout for NFL teams in mid-April.
During the NFL Scouting Combine, medical evaluations revealed a stress reaction in Carter's right foot. He opted against surgery, which would have required an eight-week recovery period, and has recently been cleared to resume training.
Carter's impressive 2024 season included 68 tackles, 23.5 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and two forced fumbles over 16 games. Despite his current injuries, he remains a top prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft, with interest from teams holding high picks, including the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants.
Atlanta Falcons Sign German-Born Kicker Lenny Krieg
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with German-born kicker Lenny Krieg, who showcased his skills at the NFL's International Player Pathway program Pro Day. Krieg previously played for the Stuttgart Surge in the European League of Football, where he was the top kicker in 2024, scoring 99 points with an 84.6% accuracy rate.
Krieg impressed scouts by converting all 14 field goal attempts during the NFL Scouting Combine, the only kicker to achieve a perfect performance. The Falcons offered him a three-year deal that includes a signing bonus and guaranteed base salary, reflecting their confidence in his potential.
The Falcons currently have Younghoe Koo as their primary kicker, signed through the 2026 season. However, Koo experienced a downturn in performance during the 2024 season, making 25 of his 34 field goal attempts, marking his lowest conversion rate since joining Atlanta in 2019. Krieg's addition introduces competition for the kicker position and underscores the Falcons' commitment to enhancing their special teams unit.
Krieg's journey from a self-taught kicker in Germany to an NFL player is remarkable. He transitioned from soccer to American football, learning to kick through online tutorials. After playing for the Berlin Adler's U19 team and senior team, he moved to the Stuttgart Surge, where his performance garnered international attention. His success story exemplifies the opportunities provided by the NFL's International Player Pathway program.
The Falcons' signing of Krieg aligns with a broader trend of NFL teams exploring international talent to enhance their rosters. As the league continues to globalize, signings like Krieg's highlight the increasing impact of international players in the NFL.