Penn State defensive domino effect: Franklin lays out complications of moving Abdul Carter to edge

Headshot 5x7 reduced qualityby:Thomas Frank Carr03/28/24

ThomasFrankCarr

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Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter switched positions this offseason and sped up the clock on the young linebackers tasked with replacing him. (Photo: Sean Fitz/BWI)

Abdul Carter's move from linebacker to defensive end is one of the biggest changes we've discussed this spring for the Penn State defense. For most fans, this move is exciting. It's a chance to put one of the team's best playmakers in a position to affect the game at a premier position.  But head coach James Franklin has made it fairly clear that this isn't going to be a layup. Plenty of factors are involved in making this a successful move for everyone. His opening remarks from the beginning of spring football weren't outwardly glowing, though he painted the picture in his trademark optimism.