A worrisome new report claims that the player the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and New England Patriots have been linked to with their top picks in the 2025 NFL Draft may actually need to undergo unexpected surgery before April’s event.

The NFL Draft is always a very important moment in the offseason for every franchise in the league. It gives an organization the chance to bring in affordable young prospects that can make a major impact in the short and long term. However, for teams in the top 10 of each round it is even more key to make the most of the opportunities.

Also Read: 2025 NFL mock draft – Latest Round 1 projections for all 32 teams, including the Cleveland Browns

The Browns, Giants, and Patriots are among that group after losing seasons again in 2024. That is why the trio of teams have selections in the top five of April’s event. But with this year’s QB class weaker than most, it has added a level of unpredictability to how things will play out in the first five selections. It is a major reason why stud Penn State pass rusher Abdul Carter could land with either the Browns at two, Giants at three, or Patriots at four.

However, this week Carter’s agent revealed some worrisome news about his client that may make those organizations hesitate about using their top selections in 2025 on the Nittany Lions superstar.

Potential Cleveland Browns and New York Giants top pick in NFL Draft may require surgery soon

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter was told this week by Drew Rosenhaus at the 2025 NFL Combine that Abdul Carter has a stress reaction in his right foot and it has been suggested he may need surgery soon. “There are mixed opinions on whether he needs surgery, and we will figure that out in the near future,” Rosenhaus said.

Schefter revealed that there are two scenarios for Carter in the days ahead. He could have preemptive surgery. Which would require having a screw inserted in his foot and return to working out and running in about eight weeks. Or, he could bypass surgery, conduct his pro day at Penn State on March 28, and show teams he doesn’t need a procedure.

• Abdul Carter stats (2024): 68 tackles, 12 sacks, 2 forced fumble, 2 passes defended

Rosenhaus doesn’t believe the situation will affect his draft stock. But it may create a narrative that he is injury prone. A notable shoulder injury during the college football playoffs hampered his effectiveness in those games for Penn State. Two major injuries in just one season is something for teams like the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and New England Patriots to consider.

To many NFL Draft pundits, Abdul Carter is the best all around prospect in this year’s class.