Penn State’s football program has long been a powerhouse in collegiate athletics, producing elite talent that transitions seamlessly into the professional ranks. The 2025 NFL Draft reinforced this legacy, as two Nittany Lions were selected in the first round, marking another proud milestone for the university. This achievement not only highlights the program’s ability to develop top-tier athletes but also solidifies its reputation as a breeding ground for future NFL stars.
### A Tradition of Excellence
Penn State has consistently produced first-round draft picks, a testament to its rigorous training, competitive environment, and commitment to excellence. The selection of Abdul Carter and Tyler Warren in the 2025 draft continues this tradition, showcasing the program’s ability to nurture talent that thrives at the highest level. Carter, a dominant defensive force, was picked third overall by the New York Giants, while Warren, a standout tight end, was selected later in the round [A](https://www.si.com/college/pennstate/football/after-round-1-success-whos-next-penn-state-nfl-draft?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ2VVJHbnBvcXpSSGUyUDNEQkUySmIiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoic2FZcndKaWlCN0JNeG5pd2RETjdqIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvcGVubnN0YXRlXC9mb290YmFsbFwvYWZ0ZXItcm91bmQtMS1zdWNjZXNzLXdob3MtbmV4dC1wZW5uLXN0YXRlLW5mbC1kcmFmdCJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Their success underscores the effectiveness of Penn State’s coaching staff and the dedication of its players.
### Abdul Carter: A Defensive Powerhouse
Carter’s journey to the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. His ability to disrupt offenses, combined with his agility and strength, made him a coveted prospect. The Giants recognized his potential early, with head coach Brian Daboll personally meeting with him during a visit to Penn State [A](https://www.si.com/college/pennstate/football/after-round-1-success-whos-next-penn-state-nfl-draft?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ2VVJHbnBvcXpSSGUyUDNEQkUySmIiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoic2FZcndKaWlCN0JNeG5pd2RETjdqIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvcGVubnN0YXRlXC9mb290YmFsbFwvYWZ0ZXItcm91bmQtMS1zdWNjZXNzLXdob3MtbmV4dC1wZW5uLXN0YXRlLW5mbC1kcmFmdCJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Carter’s selection marks the continuation of Penn State’s tradition of producing elite defensive players, following in the footsteps of past greats who have made significant impacts in the league.
### Tyler Warren: A Versatile Playmaker
Warren’s selection further cements Penn State’s reputation for developing well-rounded athletes. As a tight end, his ability to contribute both as a blocker and a receiver made him a valuable asset. His draft position reflects the growing importance of versatile tight ends in modern football, and his skill set promises to be a game-changer for his new team [A](https://www.si.com/college/pennstate/football/after-round-1-success-whos-next-penn-state-nfl-draft?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ2VVJHbnBvcXpSSGUyUDNEQkUySmIiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoic2FZcndKaWlCN0JNeG5pd2RETjdqIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvcGVubnN0YXRlXC9mb290YmFsbFwvYWZ0ZXItcm91bmQtMS1zdWNjZXNzLXdob3MtbmV4dC1wZW5uLXN0YXRlLW5mbC1kcmFmdCJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Warren’s success is a testament to Penn State’s ability to prepare players for the evolving demands of professional football.
### The Impact on Penn State’s Program
The selection of Carter and Warren in the first round is more than just a personal achievement—it is a victory
