Abdul Carter said a fond farewell to Penn State after declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.

After watching his Nittany Lions close in on Notre Dame in their quest for a national championship, Abdul Carter made a move no one expected: He officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.

… okay, maybe it was the worst-kept secret in college football, as the dominant rusher is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft at worst, but before he officially put Happy Valley in his rearview , “ Darth Vader” Carter wanted send some love to the people who got him to this position, from his high school teammates in Philly to his current home in State College.

“First and foremost, I want to start by thanking my father and mother for their constant, unwavering support. From the very beginning of my journey with the North Philly Aztecs, without them I would not be in the position I am today, and I will always respect the sacrifices they have made for me to achieve my goals thus far. To my teammates – it has been the greatest privilege of my life to take the field with you for the past three years. The bonds we built are forever and that’s something I truly value,” Abdul Carter wrote.

“To Coach Franklin and the entire coaching staff – thank you for making playing football at Penn State the best decision of my life.” Being from North Philly and Lasalle High, playing here has always been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. I will always be grateful for your dedication and commitment to helping me develop into the best version I can be on and off the court. Being able to carry on the legendary tradition of the number 11 will always be one of the greatest honors I have ever had.

“To the Nittany Lions fans, thank you for treating me like family from day one. You all are the reason playing in happy valley is the greatest experience in all of college football. Moving forward, I am happy and pleased to announce that I am officially declaring for the NFL Draft in 2025. I look forward to competing against the best at the highest level and will do my best to make the Penn State family proud.

Originally signed with Penn State as a four-star recruit from Glenside, Pathe pride of La Salle College High School, quickly established himself as a legend in Happy Valley due to his impressive ability to immediately bring down opposing quarterbacks drawing comparisons to Micaj Parsons for his size, speed and jersey number. While only time will tell what jersey he dons next, whether it’s a Cleveland Browns uniform, a New England Patriots uniform, or even a Carolina Panthers uniform, he’ll end up making every teammate, coach and fan who participated in his journey proud along the way.