By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Draft Projection
Rounds 4-5
Overview
Three-time team captain with undisputed leadership ability to go with his production. Carter is best suited for a one-gapping scheme that allows him to utilize his foot agility and upfield mentality. He plays with bend and leverage but is average at holding his ground against power. Issues mirroring initial lateral movement from blockers is a concern against zone-based running attacks. While he doesn't have jarring rush production, he might be a more talented pass rusher than run defender on the pro level, thanks to his bull rush and lateral quickness. Carter has the ability to become a good rotational piece in a 4-3 scheme.
Strengths
Plays with energy and active feet to probe for opportunities.
Drives off the snap with force and leverage into initial contact.
Good technique to stack and play off the block as a run defender.
Disguises his desire to jump-step and use club move on upfield charge.
Bull rush can be salty as interior rusher or as a base end.
Doesn't often use it, but he has a workable spin counter when needed.
Weaknesses
Too easily beaten to the spot against lateral blocks.
Needs to play with better anticipation and snap reaction against the run.
Can be pushed off the spot by powerful single blocks when centered.
Fails to maintain ideal separation to prevent being neutralized.
Needs to find a counter to improve his secondary rush off the bull rush.
Joe Marino said he had a 24% missed tackle rate.