What Is Jalen Carter’s Ceiling?
Drafted ninth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter had a mountain of expectations placed on him. Many believed Carter had the greatest upside of any player in his class. Some scouts even believed he could turn into a player scarily reminiscent of Rams legend Aaron Donald. As Eagles all-time great Fletcher Cox retired this past offseason, Carter seems to be carrying the torch seamlessly. Meanwhile, Brandon Graham, still going strong in year 15, serves as a great mentor for Carter. As Carter is on the latter side of his second season, he has produced 10 solo tackles, 11 assisted tackles, and three sacks. Carter's most impressive ability is his tenacity in collapsing the pocket. His prowess off the snap and agility for his size place his ceiling higher than most. As Carter continues to prove himself, where can he take his game to?
The numbers support the expectations, as Carter is currently the third-highest-ranked pass rusher among all defensive tackles, according to PFF. His grade places him in elite company, an impressive feat for someone who has played just over 20 games in his career. Carter has accumulated 16 quarterback pressures, a number certain to rise. Additionally, he has recorded six tackles for loss among his 21 total tackles so far. Carter’s disruption in the run game, alongside Jordan Davis, makes the Eagles' front line a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. His production is a crucial factor in the Eagles’ defensive identity.
He presents a fear factor for opposing offensive coordinators to gameplan around. Carter’s conditioning has also improved, as he recorded 66 snaps against the Commanders last week. His ability to play 100% of snaps in a game marks a significant improvement from last season. With all things considered, can we plausibly determine Carter’s ceiling? Frankly, it may be too early to tell. Carter is already among the upper echelon of interior defensive tackles in the league and is still developing. His prime is still a few seasons away. If anything is certain, Carter is on track to meet, and even exceed, the lofty expectations many had for the rising star.
