FOXBOROUGH, MA -- New York Giants first-round pick Abdul Carter didn't start or play early in Monday night's matchup with the New England Patriots . It was a "coach's decision" and not injury-related, interim head coach Mike Kafka told ESPN at halftime.

Carter eventually entered the game for the Giants' first defensive series of the second quarter. He sat out two drives, both of which resulted in points for the Patriots. Carter made a quick impact once he played, recording his first career sack on quarterback Drake Maye to end a New England drive

Carter was benched for the opening drive of a Nov. 16 contest against the Green Bay Packers because he missed a walkthrough. The Giants thought he was asleep, though Carter said he was getting treatment.

Kafka imposed last month's dis

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