New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter has revealed why he felt the need to publicly criticize teammate Jaxson Dart for introducing President Donald Trump at a rally last week.

“Some things are bigger than football, and this is one of those things,” Carter said Friday. “Jaxson is one of our leaders. He’s the face of our franchise. He not only represents himself and what he does, but he represents all of us and that goes for anybody who wears a Giants uniform.

“But if he chooses to align himself with a man like President Trump, it’s my responsibility based on what I believe and what I stand on to not only show my teammates that I’m against that — but to show the world.”

Carter initially took to social media last Saturday to voice his disapproval after confirming a video of Dart on stage with Trump was genuine. Hours later, Carter stated he and Dart had spoken and were fine, reiterating these sentiments after an offseason workout practice.

“That doesn’t mean that we have to spread hate,” Carter explained. “It doesn’t mean that me and Jaxson hate each other or we have beef.

“I sit next to Jaxson every day, every team meeting. We’re close. We talk. As long as we make sure we’ve got the same goal as a team and our goals align, which they do, then I feel like that’s all that matters.”

Dart later issued a pre-prepared statement, confirming discussions with teammates.

He did not invoke Trump’s name but emphasized his respect for the office of the president. Coach John Harbaugh believed the Giants would emerge as a better team from the situation.

Carter and Dart still have a few months to ensure they are on the same page ahead of the new NFL season.

The Giants are due to face the Minnesota Vikings in their first preseason game on 15 August, and they also have games scheduled against the Miami Dolphins and the New York Mets before the season gets underway.

The New York Giants’ first game of the 2026 season will be a home fixture against the Dallas Cowboys on 13 September.