Sunday, January 22, 2023

2023 NFL Draft Prospect DT Jalen Carter

DT Jalen Carter:

Scouting Reports:











Articles:

Report: Teams looking to move up for Georgia DT Jalen Carter (4-27-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/04/27/2023-nfl-draft-georgia-jalen-carter/

A beginner’s guide to the 2023 NFL Draft’s top 12 prospects, including pro comparisons (Jalen Carter:  Carter is a disruptive force on the field whose ability to stifle running lanes and shrink pockets makes life easier for everyone else. He’s also got questions to answer after pleading no contest to two traffic misdemeanors tied to the night a teammate and a UGA staffer died in a car accident this winter. How teams view his character will shape his draft stock — and potentially his career.  NFL comp: Ndamukong Suh. Carter wasn’t as accomplished or polished as Suh was in his final year at Nebraska, but he was the versatility, size and strength of the veteran lineman.) (4-27-23):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-2023-top-players-comparisons-will-levis-cj-stroud-jaxon-smith-njigba

2023 NFL Draft: Who is the CAN'T-MISS prospect? (David Carr - PICK: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia.  Carter's off-field issues must be carefully weighed by NFL teams, but still: His extraordinary on-field play makes him the one prospect in this class that teams can't miss on. He is an exceptional disruptor with power to push blockers into the quarterback or get to the QB himself. He's the type of player you can build a defensive front around, and there aren't many defensive tackles you can say that about.) (4-27-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-who-is-the-can-t-miss-prospect

Lions' 2023 Draft Wants (FIRST ROUND - DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Carter is undoubtedly the best interior defensive lineman in this year's draft class. He'd provide a big boost to both Detroit's pass-rush and its run defense. If the Lions can look past his off-the-field baggage, he could be just what the doctor ordered for the organization at No. 6.) (4-27-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-draft-wants

2023 NFL draft guide: Everything you need to know about the Detroit Lions (The Carter Dilemma:  The Lions’ biggest need is on the defensive line, and especially the defensive interior. Jalen Carter is the best prospect like that in this year’s draft, and just might be the most talented player overall. And he just might be there for the Lions at No. 6. Of course, there’s a reason for that too. Carter has been mired in league issues stemming from a speed-racing accident that killed two people in the Georgia football program, plus according to a stunning array of local and national reports, had issues working hard at Georgia. He needed teammates to keep him on track, and coaches forced him onto a treadmill almost daily to help keep his weight in check.  Every team will have to figure out when the risk is worth the reward for Carter. At No. 6 -- and having a massive need at that position -- Detroit is more squarely in the crosshairs of that decision than almost any other team. For a closer look at what could prove to be one of the biggest decisions of the Brad Holmes era, check this out.  If podcasts are more your thing, we spoke directly with The Athletic’s Seth Emerson, one of the top beat writers at the University of Georgia, to get an on-the-ground perspective of what’s real and what’s not about Jalen Carter.) (4-27-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-guide-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-detroit-lions.html

2023 NFL Draft Week Rumors Thursday (One player who has gone under-hyped during the 2023 NFL Draft process is Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs. Many teams use a color-based grade scale, with Blue signifying an elite starter, Red/Warm marking a good starter, Red indicating a solid starter, and below that are backup quality players. The 2023 NFL Draft is not especially strong, and Gibbs is one of the few players who received a blue grade. Multiple team sources feel Gibbs could be an Alvin Kamara- or Jamaal Charles-type running back in the NFL. The other consensus blue players in the 2023 NFL Draft are Bijan Robinson, Will Anderson, Tyree Wilson and Jalen Carter. Some teams gave blue grades to Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud and Devon Witherspoon. Some teams, meanwhile, did not have Anderson and Wilson with blue grades and had them as red/warm.  With Gibbs being one of the only consensus blue prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, in all likelihood he is going to go much higher than expected tonight. Team sources told WalterFootball.com that they think Gibbs could go as a top-20 selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. Along with being an ultra-fast running back, Gibbs is a phenomenal receiving weapon who can be used out of the slot like Kamara. Gibbs also can serve as a kick returner. He is tough, strong, fast, and has great character on and off the field. There are a lot of teams that are interested in Gibbs. While he might be a surprise top-20 pick to the media and fans, it won't be a surprise to teams if Gibbs goes that high.) (4-26-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2023-NFL-Draft-Week-Rumors-Thursday

A guide to why Jalen Carter — potentially the best player in the 2023 NFL Draft — could drop (4-27-23):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2023/04/jalen-carter-car-accident-charges-details-nfl-draft-2023

Sherree Burruss discusses how Jalen Carter's visit with Lions went (4-26-23):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/sherree-burruss-discusses-how-jalen-carter-s-visit-with-lions-went

Picking 1 ideal NFL Draft first-round prospect for every NFC North team (Detroit Lions:  The Lions should also get creative — but for the opposite reason as the Vikings. Detroit has nine picks in this draft, including two in the first round for the second year in a row. What's even wilder is that they don't have a lot of holes to fill themselves as the favorites to win the NFC North. Yes, you read that right. Detroit has the best odds to win their division this year. Do not pass go, do not collect $200.  They could use a better interior defensive line rotation. If they want to remain one of the best offensive lines in the league, they should probably continue to add to that unit. And though they addressed the secondary in free agency, they did just part ways with former first-round cornerback Jeff Okudah by trading him to the Atlanta Falcons for a fifth-round pick. They could make up for that loss with a top corner with their first pick at No. 6.  No one would be mad at any of these positions, but the prospect I think could have the most impact right away?  Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia:  Yes, there have been some off-field concerns with Carter this offseason, ranging from legal issues stemming from the tragic situation in Athens, Ga. to questions of Carter's character and work ethic. Carter can't just go anywhere. He needs a solid foundation with a good team culture that will hold him accountable while giving him the chance to thrive.  Detroit is that place.  And if the Lions do get the most out of Carter, as I suspect head coach Dan Campbell could? That defense is downright scary. Carter is an athletic freak who is not only strong enough to overpower interior lineman across the line of scrimmage but has the pass-rush moves to get past tackles and the like. He knows his leverage, can flip his hips and has an advanced arsenal of hand moves that make him impossible to block.   Pairing him on the inside with the second overall pick last year, Aidan Hutchinson, means incredibly difficult decisions for opposing offensive lines. You can't double both of those guys, meaning Hutchinson is going to get more one-on-one matchups on the outside more than likely. Hutch already led the team last year with nine sacks. Add Carter to the line and Hutchinson is well into double digits for 2023.) (4-26-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/picking-1-ideal-nfl-draft-first-round-prospect-for-every-nfc-north-team

Most Polarizing Players in the 2023 NFL Draft Include Darnell Wright, Luke Musgrave, and Chandler Zavala (Who Are the Least Polarizing Players in the 2023 NFL Draft?  Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  The prospect with the most off-field uncertainty might be Jalen Carter, but his talent has been so overwhelming that he ends up with the least polarizing difference in analyst rankings. While this year has a number of potential “top three” draft candidates cycled throughout a group of essentially six players, Carter is the only one consistently in the group.  His variance was lower than Bryce Young, Will Anderson, or C.J. Stroud, and it landed him a second overall ranking. That can still mean quite a bit this year. Carter was off one analyst’s draft board, and ESPN’s Jeff Legwold ranked Carter 16th, with another few ranking him outside the top 10. But, for the most part, Carter consistently earns top three consideration. There are a number of questions surrounding Carter, but his talent wins out.) (4-26-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-polarizing-players-consensus/

Buzz: Tennessee QB Hooker makes step in recovery (Despite some off-field concerns, Jalen Carter has remained the consensus top defensive tackle throughout draft season, and he's been mocked all over the top 10 in the lead-up to Thursday's Round 1. Although it's likely he finds a home even earlier, count Carter among those who can't see himself lasting beyond the No. 10 pick. NFL.com lead draft writer Eric Edholm spoke to the Georgia star at Wednesday's Play Football Clinic and asked if he was confident the Philadelphia Eagles would select him should he remain on the board at 10. Carter gave a direct response: "Yes, sir. I believe that." Should Philly end up taking Carter, he would pair nicely with 2022 first-rounder and former Georgia teammate Jordan Davis, giving the club two monsters in the middle of the defensive line.)(4-26-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-buzz-latest-league-news-rumors-from-wednesday-ahead-of-thursday-s

NFL draft preview: Pass rushers will go early, though questions linger (Carter is the best defensive lineman in the draft, and the most talented defensive line prospect since Chase Young. But he could fall to the bottom of the top 10 (or further) based on off-field concerns. The Georgia defensive tackle appears to have put the legal troubles behind him from a street racing incident in which one of his teammates was killed, but questions about his work ethic and locker room presence linger. Carter could be in play for the Seattle Seahawks at No. 5, the Lions at No. 6 or the Chicago Bears at No. 9.) (4-26-23):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/26/nfl-draft-preview-pass-rushers-will-anderson-jalen-carter/70152516007/

Pat Caputo: What Lions should and shouldn't do in NFL Draft (They shouldn’t draft Jalen Carter sixth overall: Obviously the big 3-technique defensive tackle is gifted, but the risk far outweighs the potential reward.) (4-26-23):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/pat-caputo-what-lions-should-and-shouldnt-do-in-nfl-draft

Five top NFL draft prospects who could be facing a slide (Jalen Carter:  Purely in terms of football performance, Carter is one of the draft's most unimpeachable prospects. The first-team All-American has been arguably the most dominant figure of Georgia's star-studded defenses during the school's back-to-back national title seasons. He is widely viewed as one of this class' elite talents, with Alabama's Will Anderson Jr., being perhaps the lone competitor for the title of the best defensive player.  In March, however, Carter was arrested on misdemeanor charges of racing and reckless driving in connection with the crash that killed Georgia teammate Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy. He later pleaded no contest. In a recently aired interview with HBO's "Real Sports," Carter said "a couple teams" inquired about the accident but "didn’t really get too in-depth." Agent Drew Rosenhaus has resisted having his client visit teams outside the top 10 picks, saying he's "confident" that Carter will be taken in that span. But if the Seahawks – who have widely been projected as a landing spot at No. 5 – opt to pass, Carter could be in for a slight slide. The Lions (No. 6), Bears (No. 9) and Eagles (No. 10) all stand out as intriguing potential fits, with Philadelphia perhaps representing his floor.) (4-26-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/04/26/nfl-draft-fall-first-round-jalen-carter-quarterbacks/11733196002/

Anthony Richardson, Jalen Carter, Hendon Hooker among the riskiest picks in the 2023 NFL Draft (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Carter's tape and production at Georgia drew him consideration for the No. 1 pick early in the 2023 NFL offseason when the Bears owned the top selection. He remains a potential top-five pick, but his stock has cooled a bit as he has navigated some off-the-field issues before the draft.  Carter had to return to Athens, Ga. during the 2023 NFL Combine after a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was charged with reckless driving and racing in connection to a deadly crash that killed one of his Georgia teammates and a staffer. It was reported that Carter had misled police about his proximity to the incident, which was the driving force behind his arrest.  Carter turned himself in and eventually agreed to a plea deal with Athens-Clarke County solicitors. He received 12 months of probation and had to pay a $1,000 fine as part of his punishment, and the incident put a damper on his then-rising draft stock.  His arrest aside, Carter also put together a poor Pro Day performance and wasn't able to participate in the NFL Combine because of his arrest. Those combined issues are scaring some teams away from Carter all together.  "We definitely need him, but we won't be drafting him," a director of player personnel told WalterFootball.com's Charlie Campbell. "We aren't going to mess with him with that work ethic and character."  If Carter's work ethic continues to be an issue in the NFL, he could end up disappointing. That will make him a true boom-or-bust pick as a likely top-10 selection.) (4-26-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-busts-2023-anthony-richardson-jalen-carter-hendon-hooker/ojhfsgc23pygkcubacj14p0o

2023 NFL Draft takes: Five QBs will go in Round 1; Jonathan Mingo is this year's George Pickens (1. Jalen Carter will go in the top six picks - There's no question Carter boasts immense football talent. Shoot, the Georgia defensive tackle could be the best player in this entire draft class. But there's also no question character concerns surround the 22-year-old who plead no contest to misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing. In a surreal scene at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, Carter was forced to briefly depart Indianapolis to face an arrest warrant back in Athens, Georgia, with the charges stemming from a car accident that killed Carter's Georgia teammate and a UGA recruiting analyst. Serious stuff. Then Carter showed up at the Bulldogs' pro day heavier than he'd been in Indy and apparently struggled to finish some field drills.  So, after beginning the evaluation process as a presumptive lock to be one of the first handful of players selected, Carter has become one of the biggest question marks of this draft. Will off-field concerns ultimately push him down the draft board?  Evaluated strictly though an on-field lens, Carter's undoubtedly one of the few truly elite prospects in this class. As my colleague Bucky Brooks wrote, Carter is an extra-large freak athlete with a disruptive presence. The All-American flashes a rare combination of explosive first-step quickness and heavy hands as a destructive run stopper/pocket pusher. This kind of player at a high-impact position typically goes in the top 10. And that's what I predict ultimately happens on Thursday night. In fact, I don't see him getting past two teams in the middle of the top 10.  Seattle and Detroit -- who own pick Nos. 5 and 6, respectively -- both have a second first-rounder, giving them flexibility to take a risk on a premium talent. And I believe the Seahawks and Lions each have the infrastructure to properly handle this situation. Pete Carroll is a gem of a coach, a spectacular motivator and a brilliant defensive mind. Seattle's head man has a long track record of guiding players with character concerns, real or perceived. The 'Hawks also need serious help on the defensive front, both in stopping the run and getting to the quarterback. Detroit's Dan Campbell is another head coach with infectious energy, the kind of leader young players listen to and feed off. And like Campbell, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn boasts over a decade of NFL playing experience. The three-time Pro Bowler knows what it takes to succeed in the league. Furthermore, the thought of Carter joining a defensive front featuring last year's No. 2 overall pick, Aidan Hutchinson -- as well as sixth-round steal James Houston -- must be highly enticing for Lions brass.) (4-25-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-takes-five-qbs-will-go-in-round-1-jonathan-mingo-is-this-year-s-g

Lions mailbag: Answering your NFL Draft questions ( Q: Final thoughts on whether the Lions would take Carter if he’s there? — @DANCAMPBELLSZN.  A: I won't declare it as off the table, but I do not anticipate the Lions drafting Carter. My opinion on the topic has remained unchanged since the combine.) (4-25-23):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/25/detroit-lions-mailbag-answering-your-nfl-draft-questions/70148692007/

Pros and Cons of Lions Drafting Jalen Carter (4-25-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/pros-cons-lions-drafting-jalen-carter

2023 NFL draft: Interior defensive line still among top needs for Detroit Lions (Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter is arguably the top on-field fit on the board for the Lions, no matter where they’re picking from. Carter is considered one of the top prospects at any position, getting love as the top college defensive tackle the folks at Pro Football Focus have ever graded. There are several questions to be answered regarding his alleged role in the fatal crash that killed a teammate and recruiting staffer, with his red flags falling under the microscope in recent months. If the Lions feel comfortable with his legal situation and the human himself, it’s a potential game-changing pick.) (4-25-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-interior-defensive-line-still-among-top-needs-for-detroit-lions.html

Why I think the Lions will take Devon Witherspoon over Jalen Carter in NFL draft (4-25-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/why-i-think-the-lions-will-take-devon-witherspoon-over-jalen-carter-in-nfl-draft.html


One of these 6 players will be the Detroit Lions' pick at No. 6 overall (Jalen Carter (Position: DT. College: Georgia. Vitals: 6-3, 314.) - Scouting report: Has rare quickness and athleticism for a big man. Potential to be a dominant interior pass rusher and menacing run defender in the NFL, and would fill the Lions’ biggest defensive need at tackle. Practice habits aren’t there and background checks are questionable.) (4-25-23):  https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/25/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-names-to-watch/11724593002/

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who make sense for Lions in first round (2. DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Carter is arguably the top interior defender in the class and that's currently the biggest need for the Lions heading into the draft. Carter is a disruptive interior defender with power, but moves like someone who weighs 30 to 40 pounds lighter. There's obviously some off-field issues the Lions had to vet in the pre-draft process.) (4-25-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-prospects-nfl-draft-lions-first-round-anderson-carter-wilson

2023 NFL Draft: Each team's most ideal pick in Round 1, including the Bucs replacing Tom Brady (6. Detroit Lions: Jalen Carter - The off-field legal issues are known. On the gridiron, Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter's production makes him the best defensive player on Georgia's back-to-back national title teams that were loaded with NFL talent, leading the way with 66 pressures and 15.5 tackles for loss the last two seasons. Watching him in person against TCU in the College Football Playoff National Championship game, it was mind-blowing to see his fluidity as he smoothly moved Horned Frogs offensive linemen out of the way with ease.  The Lions have made multiple moves to bolster their secondary like signing cornerback Cameron Sutton (three years, $33 million) and safety C.J. Gardner Johnson (one year, $6.5 million). Now, it's time to give last year's No. 2 overall pick, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, a dominant running mate on the line. The duo of Hutchinson and Carter could wreak havoc in opposing backfields for the next decade.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-draft-each-teams-most-ideal-pick-in-round-1-including-the-bucs-replacing-tom-brady/

NFL Draft News and Rumors: Separating Fact From Fiction on Anthony Richardson, Jalen Carter, Bijan Robinson, and Others (Jalen Carter Won’t Fall Out of the Top 10 - Although off-field issues threatened to tank Carter’s draft stock, he still projects as a top-10 pick as draft week begins.  Per Breer, the Seahawks at No. 5 are the “ceiling” for Carter. However, Seattle could be wary of drafting another mercurial DT, given their experience with former second-rounder Malik McDowell, who is now out of the NFL following a string of off-field problems. Meanwhile, McShay says “multiple sources” have indicated Carter won’t be the Seahawks’ pick.  NFL Network’s Peter Schrager doesn’t believe Carter will fall out of the top six, which could make him a candidate for the Lions’ pick. Detroit had a positive pre-draft meeting with Carter, per Breer, and the Lions want to add more pieces to their defense.  The Bears, holding the No. 9 pick, seem like the floor for Carter. Trading down from No. 1, acquiring a haul of draft capital, and still coming away with arguably the draft’s most talented player would represent a coup for general manager Ryan Poles. And McShay says Chicago has “spent a lot of time with (Carter) and putting in work on him.”) (4-24-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-rumors-richardson-carter-robinson/

2023 NFL Draft: The biggest questions for all 32 NFL teams (Detroit Lions: Do They Take Jalen Carter At No. 6?  Detroit’s biggest need heading into the draft is arguably on the interior defensive line, and the best interior defensive line prospect since Quinnen Williams in 2019 could be available at No. 6. The problem is, it’s unknown whether Carter’s off-field issues will have him off the Lions’ board altogether.  If so, Detroit could continue to boost the secondary with someone such as Devon Witherspoon or even take a swing on a sliding quarterback.) (4-24-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-biggest-questions-all-32-nfl-teams

2023 Lions Draft Primer (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  If it weren’t for the off-the-field and character concerns, Carter wouldn’t likely even be available at pick No. 6 -- and he still might not be. He is the best football player in the draft. It’s up to Holmes regarding whether he feels Carter is worth the risk.) (4-24-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/2023-lions-draft-primer

2023 NFL Draft Week Rumors Monday (Last year, the Philadelphia Eagles moved up in the first round to select Georgia defensive tackle Jordan Davis, and if the Eagles could have their way, they would do that again to reunite Davis with his former teammate Jalen Carter. NFL team sources have told WalterFootball.com that Philadelphia has made calls to see what it would take for teams to move down to the 10th-overall pick. Given the cost of trading in the top 10, the Eagles are not looking to move into the top five. Their calls have focused on the teams in the back half of the first round.  Of course for a trade to happen, Carter would have to slip past No. 5 in the 2023 NFL Draft. The only top-five-picking team that looks like a possibility for Carter is the Seahawks with the fifth selection. Detroit, Las Vegas and Atlanta are not going to take Carter because of his poor character and work-ethic issues not meshing well with their team cultures. The Bears could easily take Carter if he got to the No. 9 pick, so the Eagles would want to jump them. Among that trio at No. 6-8, the Raiders and Falcons are probably the most likely trade-down partners. Both Las Vegas and Atlanta could use more draft picks, so a trade is possible. The Seahawks are the key to the situation, and if they pass on Carter, then he has a real shot to join Davis in Philadelphia) (4-24-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2023-NFL-Draft-Week-Rumors-Monday

2023 NFL draft: Big slide unlikely for Georgia DT Jalen Carter (4-21-23):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-big-slide-unlikely-for-georgia-dt-jalen-carter-223854656.html

2023 NFL Draft: All-Pros, Pro Bowlers and overachievers in this class (ALL-PROS - These are the elite prospects in the class—they should rank among the top five players at their respective positions in two to three years.  3.  Jalen Carter) (4-21-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-all-pros-pro-bowlers-and-overachievers-in-this-class

2023 NFL Draft: What Does the Defensive Tackle Class Look Like Behind Jalen Carter? (Jalen Carter Remains at the Top of the Defensive Tackle Class - Being a member of the team’s national championship defense, Carter was used in a rotation of other rushers that kept him healthy, while allowing him to record three sacks his final season and being a stout run defender.  In Adam Caplan’s latest mock draft, he has Carter going fifth overall to the Seattle Seahawks, pairing him with free agent signing Dre’Mont Jones to anchor their defensive front. Caplan says, “Carter is seen as one of the top interior defensive line prospects in the last 10 years and would be a Day 1 starter for any team that drafts him — he’s that talented.”  Carter’s film shows a truly generational talent, but teams might knock him down their draft boards depending on how they feel about his off-the-field concerns. If a team like Seattle trusts their homework on Carter, he’ll undoubtedly be worth the gamble at No. 5 overall.  The last time a DT was drafted in the top 10 was in 2020, with Derrick Brown to the Carolina Panthers at No. 7. The previous defensive tackle to go in the top five was Quinnen Williams, third overall to the New York Jets in 2019.  So after Carter, who are the other players to be among the best DTs in this year’s draft? Many thought it would be Calijah Kancey, but after his recent appearance on NFL Now, that remains to be determined.) (4-21-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/defensive-tackle-class-jalen-carter-2023/

Burning Questions Facing Lions Ahead of 2023 NFL Draft (3. Will Jalen Carter be a member of the Detroit Lions?  As much as it pains me to say it, I don't think he will be. The Georgia defensive lineman, because of the Seahawks picking at No. 5, could very well be off the board by the time the Lions' first pick of the weekend rolls around. Additionally, I'm not completely sold on the fact that Holmes & Co. are going to look past Carter's off-the-field baggage.  If I were the Lions, I'd take Carter with the No. 6 pick (if he's available). I believe he'd be an immediate upgrade along the interior of Detroit's defensive line, and help elevate the team's defense to the next level.) (4-20-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-burning-questions-ahead-of-2023-draft

5 thoughts about what will and won't happen for the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL draft (All the Jalen Carter debate is a moot point - Countless hours have been spent arguing all sorts of angles about Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. From his off-field troubles to his football character to his outstanding, impactful performances on a great collegiate defense to how the Lions might feel about him, it’s surpassed the quarterback debate as the top Detroit draft topic.  I think it’s all going to prove to be a colossal waste of time and passionate energy.  While I certainly would not guarantee anything, let’s just say I’ll be quite surprised if Carter is still on the board for the Lions to make a decision about at No. 6. Quite surprised.) (4-20-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-thoughts-prospects-forecast/

Karsch and Anderson: Is Jalen Carter on the Lions' draft board? (4-20-23):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/karsch-and-anderson-is-jalen-carter-on-lions-draft-board

Lions feel ‘better’ about Jalen Carter after visit. But will they draft him? (4-20-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/lions-feel-better-about-jalen-carter-after-visit-but-will-they-draft-him.html

NFL Draft Rumors: Will Levis Stumbling, Anthony Richardson a Texan, and Bijan Robinson Goes 27th in Mock Draft (Off-Field Concerns Don’t Concern the Seattle Seahawks - Jalen Carter went No. 5 overall in Caplan’s mock draft. He noted that the Seahawks have an extensive history of dealing with players exhibiting off-the-field red flags. Caplan was told by several teams that Carter is the best player in the class based on tape, and that he’s one of the best defensive linemen prospects of the past decade.  This was all true a year ago before Carter was even draft eligible. He was the best player on a Georgia defense that had five first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft, including the No. 1 overall selection. Despite all of that talent, it was hard to scout them because No. 88 was flashing like a firework on the defensive line.) (4-20-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-rumors-will-levis-stumbling-anthony-richardson-a-texan-bijan-robinson-goes-27/

Former Detroit Lions OL Has Concerns with Jalen Carter (4-19-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/tj-lang-has-concerns-about-jalen-carter


Jalen Carter: Off-Field Incident From January Will Affect His Draft Status “A Little Bit” (4-18-23):  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/18/jalen-carter-off-field-incident-from-january-will-affect-his-draft-status-a-little-bit/

Predicting the 2023 NFL Draft slot of 5 top prospects, including Anthony Richardson (DT Jalen Carter, Georgia (Over/under draft slot: 6.5, Prediction: Under):  With connections to a fatal car crash and a disastrous Pro Day, Carter has taken massive hits to his draft stock in recent months. But this is a player who was once in the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick. This is a player that, to some, might still be the best talent in this year’s draft.  Someone will conduct their due diligence on Carter, making him the centerpiece of their defense. They’ll deem his demonstrated ability to wreck an offensive game-plan worth any potential risk. Buzzsaws like this usually do not last past the top five barring a draft-day debacle.  Though, I’m sure the Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers are salivating at the possibility with Carter.) (4-18-23):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-pick-predictions-anthony-richardson-jalen-carter

Top 10 DTs in the 2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Carter Stands Tall on the Interior (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Before the season, Jalen Carter was our DT1. And even amidst a wave of pre-draft uncertainty, Carter remains our DT1.  Teams will have to find answers on their own when it comes to Carter’s character and his uninspiring pro day performance. But if the film takes precedence, and if his character checks out, there’s no reason not to have him as DT1.  Comparisons for Carter have been made to New York Jets star Quinnen Williams, and they’re not far off. Carter has elite explosiveness and power at 6’3″, 305 pounds, with the proportional length and prying strength to be an extremely destructive force in both phases. He’s a blue-chip talent at one of the most important positions in the game today.) (4-18-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/

Buyers beware of these 2023 NFL Draft prospects (Georgia DL Jalen Carter - There were murmurings of maturity concerns with Carter before his legal matters. Those were amplified by the fact that he gained weight and could not finish his workout at Georgia's Pro Day. Carter has made some bad choices but it had to be stressful going through everything in the national eye. Interviews will be important as teams sit down with him to learn whether this has been a lapse of judgment or a potential problem going forward.) (4-19-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-prospects-jalen-carter-will-mcdonald-iv-among-six-who-bring-concerns/

5 teams with the easiest decisions to make in NFL draft (Detroit Lions, No. 6 overall:  At No. 6, the Lions should take the best defensive player available. The more quarterbacks taken in the top five, the better for Detroit. Caesars Sportsbook odds indicate the Lions are targeting a defensive back (-300 first drafted position). I think a cornerback at No. 6 overall is probably a bit rich, but a pass rusher or defensive lineman here would be perfect. Will Anderson Jr. or Tyree Wilson would be ideal. Jalen Carter is an interesting case to keep an eye on, too. He's undoubtedly one of the best players in the draft, but had to work through some off-field issues. Lions head coach Dan Campbell actually commented on Carter in cryptic fashion earlier this offseason.  "…talk about Carter, man; we talked to a teammate of his the other day and, man, he told us some things we didn't know," via Lions Wire. "That nobody probably would've known. It was like, 'Oh, that's interesting.'"  At first glance, that quote looks bad. But maybe it's actually a good thing. Maybe whatever that teammate told Campbell about Carter answered some questions about the young star from Georgia. Lions, take a defensive stud at No. 6 overall if you aren't blown away by a trade offer.) (4-19-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-draft-five-teams-with-the-easiest-decisions-to-make-in-the-first-round/

A look at the former five-star recruits in the 2023 NFL Draft: Bryce Young, Jalen Carter and Will Anderson Jr. top the list (2. DI JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA BULLDOGS (Recruiting ranking: No. 14 overall in class of 2020):  Carter started immediately as a true freshman for Georgia, earning a respectable 71.4 grade. He then broke out as a sophomore, as his 90.0 pass-rushing grade and 18.9% pass-rush win rate led all Power Five interior defensive linemen.   Carter followed that up with a similarly dominant junior season, leading all Power Five interior defensive linemen with a 92.3 grade. He finished with the second-best pass-rushing grade (89.1) and the fourth-best run-defense grade (91.2) among that same group.) (4-19-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-former-five-star-recruits-bryce-young-jalen-carter-will-anderson-jr



Jalen Carter Visiting Detroit Lions (4-16-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jalen-carter-visiting-detroit-lions

Lions to host Georgia DT Jalen Carter for a pre-draft visit (4-16-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/16/lions-to-host-georgia-dt-jalen-carter-for-a-pre-draft-visit/

2023 NFL Draft preview: 5 defensive tackles that could interest the Lions (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia:  A three-year player, quickly established a reputation for disrupting offenses. Played 38 career games. He had 18.5 career tackles for loss, with 15.5 in his last two seasons. Also, six career sacks.  Bottom line: Some draft analysts rank him as the top prospect in the draft, regardless of position. However, draft position will be affected by issues off the field.) (4-16-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-preview-5-defensive-tackles-lions-carter-kancey-bresee

Report: Georgia DT Jalen Carter 'won't fall past' the Bears' pick at No. 9 (4-16-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/04/15/jalen-carter-draft-projection-chicago-bears-draft-projection-floor/

Ranking every position in the 2023 NFL Draft by how “generational” the top prospect is (2. Interior Defensive Lineman: Jalen Carter, Georgia Bulldogs:  Carter was the only other 2023 prospect listed on PFF’s all-prospect team. However, he was the second defensive tackle listed after 2019’s Quinnen Williams. Still, Carter’s 92.2 overall grade since 2021 leads all Power Five interior defensive linemen, while his 91.3 pass-rushing grade and 90.7 run-defense grade are second.) (4-14-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-ranking-every-position-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-by-how-generational-the-top-prospect-is

2023 NFL Draft: Trevor Sikkema's top 5 players at each defensive position (1. Jalen Carter:  Unless Carter is off teams’ boards entirely due to off-field concerns, he’s without question the top player in this class, earning an elite overall grade in 2022 and bringing top-tier pass-rush potential.) (4-13-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-five-players-defense-2023-nfl-draft-sikkema

NFL Draft Top-30 Visits: The Most Interesting or Telling Visits for All 32 Teams (Detroit Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia - Before trading Jeff Okudah, it made all the sense in the world that Detroit would draft Jalen Carter with the sixth pick. They still could, but now Christian Gonzalez will likely be staring them in the face, and their more significant need is at cornerback.) (4-12-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-30-visits-the-most-interesting-or-telling-visits-for-all-32-teams/

Building the best team from the PFF College era: Bijan Robinson and Jalen Carter lone 2023 NFL Draft prospects included (DT: JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (2023) - Both Jonathan Allen and DeForest Buckner were top-three players on the PFF draft board in their respective classes, but I’d take Carter on the field over both as prospects. He’s more explosive and violent…when he wants to be.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-building-the-best-team-from-the-pff-college-era-bijan-robinson-and-jalen-carter-lone-2023-nfl-draft-prospect-included

2023 NFL Draft: The top 8 interior defensive linemen (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia (Height: 6′ 3⅛” (59th percentile), Weight: 314 (74th), Arm Length: 33½” (63rd), Hand Size: 10¼” (73rd)) - Bio: A five-star recruit out of Apopka High School in Apopka, Florida, Carter played defensive tackle, tight end and punter in high school and chose the Bulldogs over a wave of possibilities. In three seasons with Georgia, Carter had nine sacks, 13 quarterback hits, 57 quarterback hurries, 57 tackles, 51 stops, and two forced fumbles. He had 695 snaps in the B-gaps, 186 over the tackles, 132 in the A-gaps, and 35 outside the tackles. In a 2021 Georgia defense that sent seven players to the NFL in the 2022 draft, Carter was considered by many evaluators to be the most talented player on the roster.  Carter’s pre-draft process was obviously complicated by the story which broke at the scouting combine regarding his arrest on traffic charges in a crash that killed a teammate and a school football staffer hours after the team’s national championship parade. Carter’s subsequent pro day, which he did not appear ready for, didn’t help.  Stat to Know: In 2022, Carter’s True Pressure Rate (pressure rate that isolates straight dropbacks, which are more likely to be similar across situations) of 16% led all interior defensive linemen in this class.  Strengths: Carter’s nose for the pocket puts him on a different level than any other defensive player in this class. Even other first round-projected prospects like Florida right guard O’Cyrus Torrence have found it difficult to keep up with his furious rush.  Carter’s ability to leverage gaps with lateral quickness and agility is just ridiculous. When he uses his hands to maximize his lower-body movement skills… well, that’s one reason he’s just a rare talent.  And the pure power to just knife through double teams is generational. We tend to overuse that word when describing draft prospects, but it applies here. Carter at his best balances upper-body strength and technique to make himself virtually unblockable.  And it can’t be overstated just how insane it is that Carter, at 6-foot-3 plus, and 315 pounds, can win from any gap. Even as an edge defender, he creates serious problems for opposing blockers.  Weaknesses: Carter isn’t quite as consistent as a run defender; there are times when his tools take him right to the edge of blowing up a back, and he’s late to engage. While he is talented enough to work off blocks from just about anybody… I don’t want to make this about “effort” because I have to get inside his head to do that, but he’s not as dynamic in these situations.  Conclusion: Based purely on his game tape, Carter is the best prospect in this class, regardless of position — there are more NFL-ready traits here than with any other prospect, and the upside is fearsome. The off-field issues and unimpressive pro day will have NFL teams doing all kinds of due diligence, and rightly so, but however much it’ll be about the tape… well, someone’s going to redefine their defense with Jalen Carter if everything goes the right way.  NFL Comparison: Chris Jones. Like Jones, who the Chiefs selected in the second round of the 2016 draft out of Mississippi State, Carter is a perfect distillation of the modern interior defensive lineman in that he can create pressure from any gap in multiple ways. Jones has further advanced his skills throughout his estimable career to become one of the best of his era, and given the right environment, Carter absolutely has that potential.) (4-7-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-defensive-tackles-jalen-carter-calijah-kancey/

All the Detroit Lions pre-draft visits that we know about so far (Georgia DT Jalen Carter (source): He’s in the conversation for the best non-quarterback prospect in this year’s draft. He’s also in the conversation for the most-polarizing prospect after, well, you probably already know. But if not, we waded deep into that discussion on this week’s podcast. And we did that because the Lions have emerged as the betting favorites to land Carter in the draft. He’s certainly a fit on the field, although the potential red flags cannot be ignored. It’ll be fascinating to see how long Carter lasts on draft night before a team rolls the dice on his immense upside.) (4-7-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/all-the-detroit-lions-pre-draft-visits-that-we-know-about-so-far.html

2023 NFL Draft: Breaking Down Jalen Carter's Stock (4-5-23):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/nfl-news-nfl-draft-jalen-carter-georgia-draft-stock-update

Detroit Lions Betting Favorites to Draft Jalen Carter (4-5-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-betting-favorite-to-draft-jalen-carter

Former All-Pro DT Gerald McCoy offers some smart advice to Jalen Carter (4-4-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/04/03/jalen-carter-pre-draft-workout-drew-rosenhaus-gerald-mccoy-advice/


2023 NFL Draft's best at everything: Top defensive line performers in 10 distinct categories (BEST AGAINST TRUE PASS SETS - DI: Jalen Carter, Georgia (91.5):  As the premier defensive tackle in this year's class, Carter was going to earn a mention eventually. Given his physical dominance over blockers all season, interior offensive linemen had no chance to slow him down in one-on-one situations. Carter's heavy hands, quickness and technical superiority made him nearly unblockable against true pass sets, as evidenced by his outstanding 29.0% win rate in those situations.  BEST ON THIRD DOWN - DI: Jalen Carter, Georgia (92.3):  Carter's dominance on third downs shouldn't be a surprise to anyone who watched him play at Georgia, as he did well to make plays when it mattered most throughout the season. Carter recorded a 20.5% pressure rate and an 83.3 run-defense grade on third downs in 2022.  BEST POWER RUSH - DI: Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Carter's ability to physically overwhelm opposing blockers was the backbone of his pass-rush success at Georgia, as he consistently battered opposing linemen with powerful club moves, imposing bull rushes and violent shrug escapes. A lot of this is due to Carter's ability to transition his quick get-off into immediate power at the point of contact, which routinely put offensive linemen on their heels (or even their backside).  And while there are stronger defensive tackles in this class, Carter's technique amplifies his power to the point that few can match. His overwhelming power provides him with a strong foundation to find pass-rush success in the NFL as long as his motor is running hot.) (4-4-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-best-at-everything-top-defensive-line-performers-nick-herbig-calijah-kancey


Detroit Lions Mock Draft: Data Says Jalen Carter, Deonte Banks, and Jack Campbell Round Defense Into the Mitochondria (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia | Round 1, Pick 6.  There may have been a spot of gamesmanship by Dan Campbell at the annual league meeting. When asked about Jalen Carter, Campbell had some… interesting… comments.  “We talked to a teammate of his the other day, and, man, he told us some things we didn’t know,” Campbell told reporters. “That nobody probably would’ve known. It was like, ‘Oh, that’s interesting.'”  If Campbell had been told something negative about Carter from a teammate, there’s be no real reason to discuss it with reporters. But if Detroit believes he’s the best player in the draft and they have him atop their draft board, the comments make sense.  That comment could be meant to plant a seed of doubt in the Cardinals and Seahawks, the two teams ahead of Detroit that likely won’t draft a QB and could use Carter’s services on their own defensive lines.  Placing Carter alongside Alim McNeill makes for quite the athletic thunder-and-lightning combination. The Lions also possess a stable of pass rushers like Aidan Hutchinson, the Okwara brothers, Charles Harris, and the shockingly productive James Houston.  But defenders rotate in and out of the lineup, and there’s no such thing as too much depth. Carter is selected more by Lions users in one-round mock drafts and overall than any other player.) (4-3-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-mock-draft-data-says-jalen-carter-deonte-banks-jack-campbell/

Ranking the Lions’ best options with the 6th overall draft pick (Tier 2 — Elite talent, but questionable fit? DT Jalen Carter (Georgia), 6-foot-3, 314 pounds:  I already shared some thoughts on Carter’s draft profile here, but essentially, Carter is a top-five talent in this draft at the Lions’ biggest immediate need. If there were no character concerns surrounding him, this would feel like a no brainer if the Lions decide to stay at No. 6 overall. The Lions will be bringing in Carter on one of their pre-draft visits, so you can expect that they’ll have done their homework on him, whether or not they decide to pick him.  How he fits: Immediately becomes the best interior defensive lineman on the roster.) (4-3-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/4/3/23659870/2023-nfl-draft-rankings-detroit-lions-will-anderson-anthony-richardson-top-options-six-overall


What Are Jalen Carter’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions - The Lions seem to have figured out the edges of their defensive line. Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston thrived in their respective rookie seasons as they combined for 17.5 of the team’s 39 sacks in 2022. However, Detroit’s interior defensive line needs some upgrades after a troubling year up the middle that included allowing 320 rushing yards to a Carolina Panthers attack that no longer included Christian McCaffrey.   With the addition of Carter, the Lions would immediately boast one of the best, young defensive front sevens in football with Hutchinson and Houston on the edge, Carter up the middle, and second-year linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez coming off of a fantastic rookie year of his own.) (4-2-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/jalen-carter-nfl-draft-lions-seahawks-bears-raiders/

Lions 2023 draft: A defensive tackle for every round (1st round: Jalen Carter, Georgia - Carter is considered by many to be the best defensive talent in the 2023 NFL draft, and there’s a pretty good chance he won’t be on the board when the Lions make their first pick at No. 6 overall.  It’s easy to see his appeal for the Lions. Carter is a disruptive force capable of playing anywhere between the nose and the “over” tackle on the interior in an even front like Detroit uses. His quickness, violent hands and ability to win over either shoulder of a blocker with his first move off the snap is electrifying. Carter didn’t produce statistically for the Bulldogs (six sacks in 38 games) but he was the centerpiece of the top overall defense in college football the last two seasons.  He’s not had a good workout season. Carter had his much-publicized arrest during the NFL Scouting Combine stemming from a street racing incident where a teammate and a Georgia recruiting coordinator were killed. The case is resolved with Carter on probation and paying a fine and community service. At Georgia’s pro day, Carter was overweight and out of shape, unable to finish routine drills.  The Lions make a lot of sense as a landing spot for all his detractions. Detroit has strong young finishers around him in Aidan Hutchinson, James Houston and Josh Paschal that can thrive off the chaos he creates for the offense. It’s a strong locker room and coaching staff that can help Carter through difficult personal circumstances, too.) (4-2-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2023-draft-a-defensive-tackle-for-every-round/

Lions Fans React to Jalen Carter's Body Cam Video (4-2-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-fans-react-to-jalen-carter-body-cam-video

Lions' 2023 NFL Draft First-Round Big Board (DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  If not for concerns about his character, Carter would be in contention for the first defensive player taken in the draft. The rest of his pre-draft experience is something to follow, as there’s a good chance he’s waiting for the Lions at No. 6. Will Holmes and company make the move? It remains to be seen.) (4-1-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-draft-first-round-big-board

NFL Draft risers and fallers: Anthony Richardson, Jalen Carter among biggest 2023 pro days winners, losers (Loser: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia - Carter is no longer in play for the No. 1 overall pick given the Panthers moved up for a quarterback. It doesn't appear he will be the first defensive player off the board, either, as high as No. 3 overall to the Cardinals.  Carter couldn't compete at the Combine because it was timed with him facing misdemeanor racing and reckless driving charges he needed to address. When he got a chance to work out back in Athens on March 15, he got off to an OK start before dropping off when getting deeper into his positional drills.  Carter likely didn't slip out of the top 10 because of his explosive upside leading a weak defensive tackle class. But he doesn't have that "can't-miss" feel he had right after the Bulldogs repeating as defensive-minded national champions.) (3-31-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-pro-days-anthony-richardson-jalen-carter/ylyphyvf5we8kxmth8sgjlyc

Who should Lions select with both first round picks in '23 draft? | 'NFL Total Access' (They pick Jalen Carter with the 6th pick.) (3-31-23):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/rank-on-who-lions-should-select-with-6th-18th-overall-picks-nfl-total-access

Reports That Georgia DT Jalen Carter Is ‘Off’ Multiple Boards Don’t Add Up (3-31-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/reports-that-georgia-dt-jalen-carter-is-off-multiple-boards-dont-add-up/

ESPN NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller believes Jalen Carter is best suited for the Lions (3-31-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/31/espn-nfl-draft-analyst-matt-miller-believes-jalen-carter-is-best-suited-for-the-lions/

Lions drafting Jalen Carter one of the few teams where it could be a home run (3-31-23):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/03/31/jalen-carter-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2023-dan-campbell/70069004007/

Is the Lions’ locker room strong enough to handle a player with red flags? (3-31-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/is-the-lions-locker-room-strong-enough-to-handle-a-player-with-red-flags.html

Report: Georgia DT Jalen Carter no longer on the Raiders draft board (3-30-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/30/nfl-draft-jalen-carter-removed-from-raiders-draft-board-consideration/

3/30 NFL Draft News and Rumors: Anthony Richardson Won’t Dine With Panthers, Hendon Hooker Makes Surprise Appearance, and More (Dan Campbell’s Curious Comments About Jalen Carter - During Tuesday’s iteration of the annual league meeting, Dan Campbell had some interesting comments regarding Jalen Carter while meeting with the media.  “We talked to a teammate of his the other day, and, man, he told us some things we didn’t know,” Campbell told reporters. “That nobody probably would’ve known. It was like, ‘Oh, that’s interesting.'”  When he was asked whether what he’d heard was good or bad, he simply reiterated that it was interesting. The news could have been that he used NIL money to buy a kidney for a friend in need, or the exact opposite.  Wording it the way he did was purposeful. The Detroit Lions pick sixth in the NFL draft, and it would not be the first time a team leaked information or played coy about a situation so a prospect they love falls into their lap.  After all, the Lions added three difference-makers to the secondary this offseason. A defensive line group consisting of Aidan Hutchinson, Carter, Alim McNeill, and John Cominsky, and a host of other solid contributors would be incredibly dangerous to opposing passers. And while the No. 2 CB spot could use an upgrade, Detroit has consistently used capital on offensive and defensive playmakers to build the trenches since Brad Holmes and Campbell arrived.) (3-29-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-and-rumors-0330-2023-richardson-wont-dine-with-panthers-hooker-makes-surprise-appearance/

Defensive Linemen Lions Could Target in Each Round of 2023 NFL Draft (Round 1 — Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Perhaps the most highly debated prospect in this draft, Carter is an undeniable talent with issues off the field holding him back. He was once believed to be the first defensive prospect off the board, but now faces uncertainty heading into draft night.  Carter was a game-wrecker on the defensive interior throughout his career at Georgia, winning two national championships. However, issues have surfaced off the field since his playing days ended at his alma mater.  The dilemma regarding Carter boils down to whether Holmes and coach Dan Campbell believe he would fit within their culture. He’s reportedly going to visit with the team, which will provide some clarity to the decision-makers prior to draft night.  If the Georgia product is convincing, the Lions could add a top-tier talent to their roster who could make a big contribution right away. If not, another first-round- caliber player like Pittsburgh’s Calijah Kancey could be a target, if Detroit still wants to address the position early.) (3-29-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/defensive-lineman-lions-could-target-2023-nfl-draft

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Pro Days (Down - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Since winning the National Championship, Carter has had a series of mistakes that have hurt his draft stock, and it looks unlikely that Carter will be the first non-quarterback taken in the 2023 NFL Draft. A few months ago, he was one of the favorites for that designation, but that was before he was involved in a reckless street-racing driving incident that ended with the other car getting in a fatal accident that killed a teammate and a Georgia staffer plus left two others injured.  Carter then did not interview well at the combine and was not forthcoming about that incident. After that, he gained nine pounds prior to the Georgia pro day and was so out of shape he couldn't complete the pro-day workout. All of these issues reinforce the concerns that teams had about his work ethic, character, and maturity.  In my 2023 NFL Mock Draft, I still have Carter going in the top 10, but the chances of him sliding to the end of the top 10 are improving with thanks to his disastrous draft-season performance.) (3-28-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_28.php

2023 NFL Draft DT prospect rankings: Jalen Carter leads a gifted group (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia, 6-3, 314, Junior - Overview: The centerpiece of the dominating defenses that led the Georgia Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships, Carter is arguably the best player in the 2023 NFL draft. He signed with Georgia as a four-star recruit out of Apopka, Florida and even among all of the talent Kirby Smart brought to Athens, Carter stood out immediately, earning playing time in 10 games as a true freshman and even starting against Florida and South Carolina, logging nearly as many QB pressures (13) as he did tackles (14) in his debut season, while also blocking a PAT and catching a one-yard touchdown after lining up as a fullback (versus Tennessee).  Carter started just two games in Georgia’s 2021 title run and yet still earned second-team All-SEC honors from league coaches, racking up 37 tackles (with 33 QB pressures), as well as 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and two more blocked kicks. He shrugged off nagging injuries to start nine of 13 games in 2022, earning consensus first-team All-SEC accolades with another 32 stops (31 pressures), seven tackles for loss, three sacks, three pass breakups and two forced fumbles. Though he was only minimally productive from a statistical standpoint in playoff wins over Ohio State (one tackle, one PBU) and TCU (two tackles), Carter was clearly the focus of these opponents’ blocking schemes, freeing up teammates to wreak havoc. He was quite effective himself, quietly racking up a combined six QB pressures in those contests.  Strengths: It is difficult to describe Carter’s blend of athleticism and power and not venture into hyperbole. Though it isn’t always the most technically sound or aesthetically pleasing, Carter simply overwhelms opponents off the snap with the awesome momentum he generates, splitting through double-teams with powerful, active hands that he throws like sledgehammers and wading through the sea of humanity like he’s stepping through waves in a kiddie pool. His functional strength is outstanding. Carter bullies blockers at the point attack, latching onto and simply tossing them aside on his way to the ballcarrier, showing terrific length, strength and hand placement, as well as fierce closing speed and power for immediate takedowns. Despite sloppy conditioning at his Pro Day, Carter does not typically carry extra weight around his middle, boasting a powerful, well-built frame with his weight perfectly distributed. He also has long arms (33.5") and large hands (10 ¼").  Concerns: The on-field criticisms of Carter are pretty minimal, though his conditioning and snap-to-snap consistency wane (more on this later) and he could use greater variety in his pass rush technique. At times, Carter seemed to freelance, checking in with teammates for the play call immediately prior to the snap and just attacking opponents without really understanding his role in the defense.  Off the field, however, is a different matter. He abruptly left the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis when charges were filed by the Atlanta Police Department for his role in a tragedy in the early morning hours January 15 that cost two members of the Georgia football program their lives. Carter pled no contest to misdemeanor charges of racing and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. He avoided jail time with the plea but will be on probation for a year, needs to do 80 hours of community service, paid a $1000 fine and has to undergo a course in traffic safety.  He had a disappointing showing at his Pro Day, weighing in nine pounds heavier than he had just 13 days earlier at the Combine and struggling to get through positional drills.  Bottom Line: It is important to maintain some perspective when discussing these young men, as many people make mistakes as 21-year-olds. The most disturbing thing about Carter is the pattern of his mistakes. The team that gambles on him must have the locker room and support staff to help him mature or it risks a colossal bust. But if Carter does commit to his craft, he is a potential franchise cornerstone who should quickly rank among the better interior defensive linemen in the league.  Grade: Top 10) (3-28-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-draft-dt-prospect-rankings-jalen-carter-leads-a-gifted-group

Detroit Lions to host Georgia's Jalen Carter on pre-draft visit (3-28-23):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/03/28/detroit-lions-jalen-carter-nfl-draft-visit/70054966007/

As Lions schedule Jalen Carter visit, Brad Holmes explains how he navigates risks (3-28-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/as-lions-schedule-jalen-carter-visit-brad-holmes-explains-how-he-navigates-risks.html

Detroit Lions Schedule Jalen Carter for Prospect Visit (3-28-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-schedule-jalen-carter-for-prospect-visit

Biggest boom-or-bust prospect at every position in the 2023 NFL Draft (DI: JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA - This one needs little explanation. On the field, he’s the top-ranked non-quarterback on PFF’s draft board. Off the field, he’s had a nightmarish few months. He pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges stemming from his role in an alleged street racing accident that resulted in the death of his Georgia teammate Devin Willock and Georgia recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy. Months prior, he was cited for driving 90 miles per hour in a 45 miles-per-hour zone. Then, at his pro day, Carter showed up nine pounds heavier than at the combine and couldn’t even finish the positional drills. The red flags are starting to pile up.) (3-28-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-biggest-boom-or-bust-prospect-every-position-2023-nfl-draft

NFL Draft Landing Spots: What Teams Do Will Anderson Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Jalen Carter Fit Most Often in Mock Drafts? (Georgia DT Jalen Carter (Detroit Lions – 17.8%, Atlanta Falcons – 17.2%, Las Vegas, Raiders – 16.9%, Chicago Bears – 15.4%, Seattle Seahawks -13.2%, Philadelphia Eagles – 12.4%):  On behalf of the entire NFL, I vote not to allow Jalen Carter to fall to the Eagles in the draft. A quartet of Jordan David, Fletcher Cox, Milton Williams, and Carter would be tough to digest for opposing offensive lines. Replacing Javon Hargrave with Carter to extend the life of Philadelphia’s dominant defensive line to what feels like the past two decades shan’t be allowed!  The Lions would be a fun fit. Carter would get to pin his ears back a bit playing alongside Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and a whole host of other rushers along the defensive line. It would put Carter in an advantageous situation early on where he could win with athleticism as he learns the finer points of the position from a technical perspective because he would get more favorable matchups on the interior.  The storyline in Atlanta could be cool because Carter would effectively take the mantle over from Grady Jarrett eventually. However, the Falcons paid David Onyemata and still have Jarrett, while their EDGE play is a bigger defensive weakness at this point in time.  Chicago’s entire defensive front could still use a facelift, so drafting the best available defensive lineman with the ninth pick isn’t a bad option. Between Anderson, Carter, and Tyree Wilson, one of the three should realistically be there.  Seattle is interesting because they’ve never made a huge effort to add interior pressure as part of the package from a defensive tackle perspective. Guys like Michael Bennett could do it as big edge defenders, but additions like Dre’Mont Jones and Jarran Reed might change the calculus. What Seattle plans on the defensive interior is a mystery.  The Raiders need offensive and defensive line help like nobody’s business. But they must wrestle with the optics of drafting Carter just a few years after Henry Ruggs. If they’re comfortable with the potential backlash and PR hit they’d receive from the pick, then it makes sense.) (3-27-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-landing-spots-anderson-robinson-carter/

How every five-star recruit in the 2020 class has graded so far in their college football career (14. DI JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA BULLDOGS (Career Grade: 91.4 (1,075 snaps)):  Carter started immediately as a true freshman for Georgia, earning a respectable 71.4 grade. He then broke out as a sophomore, as his 90.0 pass-rushing grade and 18.9% pass-rush win rate led all Power Five interior defensive linemen.   Carter followed that up with a similarly dominant junior season, leading all Power Five interior defensive linemen with a 92.3 grade. He finished with the second-best pass-rushing grade (89.1) and the fourth-best run-defense grade (91.2) among that same group. Carter is the No. 2 overall prospect on our 2023 NFL Draft big board but is starting to see his stock fall due to off-field issues.) (3-24-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-how-every-five-star-recruit-in-the-2020-class-has-graded-so-far-in-their-college-football-career

Ranking the top DTs in this year’s class (Tier 1 — The Jalen Carter Tier.  Jalen Carter (Georgia), 6-foot-3, 314 pounds.  On the field, Jalen Carter checks all the boxes. He is arguably the best player in the entire draft from a pure talent standpoint, but positional value and character concerns could see him slide out of the top-5—possibly even further.  Carter is a game-changing talent and would instantly fit in any scheme and improve any team that is looking for an interior defensive lineman. As a pass rusher, he is as explosive as they come and displays violent hands to shed blocks and get to the quarterback in the blink of an eye. He was also one of the best run defenders in college football last year and has shown a knack for tackling ball carriers in the backfield.  To find any issues with Carter on the field, you would have to be nitpicking. There really aren’t any real negatives to his game, though there may be some questions about his stamina, since he was used sparingly, and has never played over 400 snaps in a year at Georgia.  I don’t have much to say about Carter from a character standpoint and I’m not going to pretend like I know the ins and outs of his legal problems. What I do know is that the Lions brass will do their homework, whether they decide Carter is a good fit or not. That being said, reports out of the pro day process did not seem to paint Carter in a good light.  How he fits: Will fit just about anywhere, but to maximize his worth, best to put him at 3T.  Round grade: Top-5 pick) (3-23-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/23/23639576/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-dts-in-this-years-class

Why one draft analyst thinks Jalen Carter could be a good fit for Lions (3-23-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/why-one-draft-analyst-thinks-jalen-carter-could-be-a-good-fit-for-lions

Comparing top 2023 prospects to former draft busts (DT Jalen Carter (Georgia) (Bust comparison: Marcell Dareus.  Pick and year: No. 3 overall, 2011 draft (Bills)..  College: Alabama):  Carter and Dareus are close stylistic specimens, three-down thumpers equally as disruptive as run defenders as they were pass rushers in college. They checked all the boxes teams want out of a marquee defensive tackle prospect.   The off-field concerns run parallel, too. Dareus unfortunately lost many people close to him during his early years and through his time in the NFL, which likely had an affect on him, and thereby shortened what should've been a long, productive NFL career. Conditioning was a problem at times as well. This comparison isn't all bad because Dareus was a first-team All-Pro in 2014 and played in the NFL from 2011 to 2019.  But in a first round with Cam Newton, Von Miller, A.J. Green, Julio Jones, J.J. Watt, and Patrick Peterson, Dareus fell short of the lofty expectations that come with being the No. 3 overall selection in the draft. If Carter never maximizes his full potential as a professional, it'll likely be because of the "character issues" we've heard about at length during this pre-draft process.) (3-22-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-comparing-the-consensus-top-prospects-in-this-years-class-to-former-infamous-draft-busts/


2023 NFL Draft: Defensive line prospect superlatives (MOST VERSATILE - Interior: Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Part of the beauty of Carter’s game is his ability to win in so many different ways. He has the lower-body strength to get plopped down at nose tackle, the length (33 ½-inch arms) to go toe-to-toe with offensive tackles, and the quickness to get past guards, which is why he was the top non-quarterback on the PFF draft board prior to his off-field issues this spring.  BEST HANDS - Interior: Jalen Carter, Georgia:
The uniting factor between the two best defensive linemen in this draft class is their ability to manipulate offensive linemen with their upper bodies. Carter has some of the more powerful hands you’ll ever see from a defensive line prospect, especially one that’s not a hulking nose tackle. The power he showed on tape for only a true junior was special.) (3-21-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-defensive-line-prospect-superlatives

Jalen Carter pleads no contest to charges in deadly crash, will get probation, fine (3-16-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/16/georgias-jalen-carter-pleads-no-contest-to-charges-in-fatal-crash/

Uncertainty surrounds Carter's falling draft stock (3-16-23):  https://www.nbcsports.com/video/jalen-carters-stock-falling-due-poor-pro-day-and-field-concerns


Pro Day News and Rumors: Jalen Carter Falls While Nolan Smith and John Michael Schmitz Rise (Jalen Carter Struggles While Nolan Smith Shines - Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers, defensive line coaches from the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs, and the majority of the Atlanta Falcons front office were among some of the onlookers at Georgia’s Pro Day.  Let’s start with defensive tackle Jalen Carter, who I tweeted about early today, mentioning the poor reviews I was hearing from fellow attendees. Carter tipped the scales at 323 pounds, nine pounds heavier than his NFL Scouting Combine weight. Carter did not work out but participated in position drills and looked awful.  Carter was huffing and puffing throughout the workout and looked out of shape. I’m told he was on his knees at the end of the workout — not praying but rather gasping for air. The defensive tackle-needy Detroit Lions, who hold the sixth pick of the draft, were flabbergasted by what they saw.  This is another incident that will further tip the arrow downward on Carter’s draft stock in what’s been a horrific run-up to the event for a prospect once graded at the top of the class.) (3-15-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-jalen-carter-falls-while-nolan-smith-and-john-michael-schmitz-rise/

Jalen Carter draft stock in potential freefall after poor showing at Georgia's pro day (3-15-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/15/jalen-carter-draft-stock-fallingn-poor-pro-day/

Georgia DT Carter struggles during pro day workout (3-15-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-jalen-carter-struggles-during-georgia-pro-day-workout

NFL Draft: Jalen Carter landing spots amid concerns (Detroit Lions - Head coach Dan Campbell is that father figure willing to give tough love. He expects effort from his players but will go to the end of the earth for those that meet that expectation. If the player needs to hear something difficult, then the coach is not going to sugarcoat it. There is a culture of toughness and accountability in Detroit. From an on-field perspective, the Lions would have a talented defensive front after using first- and second-round selections on edge rushers last spring.) (3-15-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2023-best-landing-spots-for-jalen-carter-amid-legal-trouble-reports-of-disappointing-pro-day/


Is Jalen Carter’s Draft Stock Falling Ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft? (3-15-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/is-jalen-carters-draft-stock-falling-ahead-of-the-2023-nfl-draft/

2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Cater scouting report (3-15-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-report-jalen-carter/

Georgia DT Jalen Carter comes in heavy, doing position drills only at pro day (3-15-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/15/2023-nfl-draft-georgia-pro-day-jalen-carter/

Georgia Pro Day 2023 News, Rumors: Will Jalen Carter Be in Attendance? (Jalen Carter, DT:  Most of the way through, the conversation surrounding Jalen Carter as a 2023 NFL Draft prospect was a simple one. On the field, he’s a blue-chip talent. But misdemeanor charges of racing and reckless driving were revealed against Carter during the NFL Combine. Those charges were related to a January 15 crash that killed a Georgia teammate and recruiting staffer.  Carter traveled to Georgia during the Combine and was booked at Athens-Clarke County Jail before being released on bond shortly after. There’s no direct implication against Carter in the crash, but the situation still hangs over his head as the draft approaches, and teams will do their due diligence.  As of now, it’s expected that Carter will test at his pro day to make up for the opportunity lost at the Combine. He’ll also be given a chance to speak with more teams, who’ll undoubtedly have questions about his recent past. Carter should still be a first-round pick, but off-field evaluations could make a notable difference in that range.) (3-14-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/georgia-pro-day-2023-news-rumors-will-jalen-carter-be-in-attendance/

TWENTYMAN: 6 pro days to watch this week (1. Georgia, Wed., March 15 - Who to watch: Defensive tackle Jalen Carter has the talent to potentially be the No. 1 overall pick. He had to leave the Combine in Indy briefly last week to take care of a warrant in Georgia. Teams are obviously going to have questions about his character, and they'll get to see some testing numbers from him as well as he opted to wait until his pro day to test.) (3-12-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/6-pro-days-to-watch-this-week-carter-murphy-smith

Every top-10 interior defender's highest-graded season (JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (Big board rank: 2/DI1, Best PFF grade: 92.3, 2022, 2022 Pass-rush grade: 89.1, 2022 Run-defense grade: 92.3)) (3-10-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-every-top-10-interior-defenders-highest-graded-season

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Combine (Stock Down - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Carter came into the combine as potential top-five pick, but his draft stock was thrown into chaos, or at least limbo, because of an arrest for street racing. That incident saw the other car wreck, leaving two friends dead and two friends injured. Sources from the NFL said they believed this arrest could potentially cause them to drop Carter from their draft boards entirely, but that it could also end up being a near non-factor. The result will all comes down to Carter's role and and actions that night.  Police reports say that Carter left the scene and then returned a few hours later. League sources say that if Carter saw or knew about the accident and left the scene while his teammate had just died, a staffer was dying, and two people were injured ,that would lead to him dropping him from their board. If Carter drove away because he lost track of them during their race and did not know there was an accident, then they feel he probably would not be significantly hurt by a reckless driving and speeding incident.  A source from a team that is picking high in the first round and is also very strict on character said Carter is almost off their board regardless of his actions around the incident. Carter already faced makeup concerns with teams, such as his character and work ethic. That source said they doesn't think their franchise will want to deal with Carter's lack of work ethic and poor decision-making.) (3-7-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_25.php

NFL scouting combine winners and losers by the numbers: Defense (Loser: Jalen Carter - The biggest story of the combine didn’t come via any measurements or testing.  Less than an hour before Carter was set to take the podium and answer questions from the media, it was reported that he was charged with reckless driving and racing in connection to a January crash that killed one of his former teammates and a recruiting staff member. He promptly returned to Athens, Georgia where he was booked into jail before posting bond. The Georgia interior defensive lineman’s arraignment hearing is set for April 18th, nine days before the draft.   Carter was the favorite to be the first non-quarterback selected, but now it’s completely unknown how high teams will be willing to take him with these legal issues.) (3-7-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-losers-defense

2023 NFL Combine: Performance grades for the top 20 draft prospects (DI JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (PFF Big Board Rank: 2, Grade: F):  We don’t know the conversations that happened behind the scenes, but before Carter could even take the podium for his interview session at the combine, let alone work out on the field, it was reported that he faced an arrest warrant for reckless driving and racing stemming from a January car crash that resulted in the death of a Georgia teammate and a Georgia football staffer.  There’s no way to sugarcoat Carter's week due to the warrant itself and its timing. His draft stock is a question mark moving forward.) (3-6-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-combine-grades-top-20-prospects

NFL Combine Winners and Losers (Losers - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  This one was pretty obvious. When you're perceived as the top player on most draft boards and a warrant is issued for your arrest mid-combine it's a rough look. Carter already wasn't going to workout at the combine and was instead going to focus on Georgia's pro day. But when you show up to the event solely to do the press conference and they can't do that because you were allegedly involved in a fatal car accident and never told anyone, that's a pretty bad day at the office. Carter flew back to Georgia, was charged with two misdemeanors then returned to the combine for what I'm sure was a few awkward conversations. A player ticketed for the top five now could see his stock in free fall.) (3-6-23):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/nfl-combine-winners-losers-list-draft-01gtj41a1vth

NFL Combine takeaways by position: Anthony Richardson's speed, Bryce Young's size & more we learned about 2023 draft (Defensive tackles: No doubt about Adetomiwa Adebawore - Adetomiwa Adebawore, Skoronski's Northwestern teammate on the other line of scrimmage, also had himself a stellar combine punctuated with a 4.49 40-yard dash. At 282 pounds, that's crazy wheels for more of an inside-outside versatile pass-rush threat. Of the more traditional tackle prospects, Pittsburgh's Calijah Kancey had the best 40 (4.67) in an overall dominant session.  With Georgia's Jalen Carter still projected to be drafted high amid off-field concerns and Clemson's Bryan Bresee a good system option later in the first round, the position needed more standout options for the next tier. Kancey and Adebawore provided just that.) (3-6-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2023-takeaways-anthony-richardson-bryce-young/ptpjkejssvw6s1dt6ghwfag0

2023 NFL Scouting Combine: Stock up, stock down for every position (Stock Down: Jalen Carter, Georgia Bulldogs:  The biggest story of the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine didn’t come via any measurements or testing.  Less than an hour before Carter was set to take the podium and answer questions from the media, it was reported that he faced misdemeanor charges for reckless driving and racing in connection to a January crash that killed a fellow Georgia football player and a recruiting staff member. He promptly returned to Athens, Georgia, where he was booked into jail before posting bond. His arraignment hearing is set for April 18, nine days before the draft.  Carter was the favorite to be the first non-quarterback selected, but his draft status is now up in the air.) (3-6-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-up-stock-down-every-position-nfl-draft

Who were the winners and losers of the 2023 NFL Combine? (Losers - Jalen Carter:  Carter was the lead story Wednesday. He was arrested on misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing in connection with a crash that killed a Georgia teammate on Jan. 15. Carter returned to the combine Thursday, where he conducted interviews with teams. Georgia offensive lineman Devin Wilcox and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy were killed in the accident. Carter was at the scene. He tweeted that he expected to be "fully exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing."  How much will this developing story impact Carter? The projected first-round pick expected to work out at the combine, but he was present only for the on-field drills portion of the defensive linemen workouts. Carter did not speak to the media Wednesday. The Sporting News projects the Cardinals to take Carter with the No. 3 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Carter's next chance to prove his ability will be at Georgia's pro day on March 15. ) (3-5-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-winners-losers-2023-draft/ufchjhev3s5swxnc9uv7zlfk

NFL Draft Combine Rumor Mill: 2023 NFL Draft Top 10 Lacks Consensus (Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter was in that top 4 group prior to the arrest warrant that was issued on Wednesday of last week. If Carter gets cleared before the 2023 NFL Draft he could go back into being a secure top-10 selection, but that is a big "if" at this point with the draft less than two months away.) (3-5-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2023-NFL-Draft-Top-10-Lacks-Consensus

Lions DC Aaron Glenn wants athletic defensive tackles, and NFL Draft has options (To continue improving, the Lions will need to add some beef — and talent — up the middle during free agency and the draft.  Enter: A defensive tackle class without much true star power outside Georgia's Jalen Carter (and his pending legal battles have many wondering where he'll even go in this draft). Though there might not be a home-run interior option for Detroit with the sixth pick, this class looks as though it'll provide plenty of value for a team with five picks in the first three rounds.) (3-3-23):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/03/03/lions-dc-aaron-glenn-wants-athletic-defensive-tackles-and-nfl-draft-has-options/69968200007/

NFL Combine Takeaways Day 3: Baker Mayfield, Jalen Carter, and JuJu Smith-Schuster (Jalen Carter’s Draft Stock in Flux - The stunning news over arrest warrants being issued for Jalen Carter due to his part in a car crash, which resulted in the death of a teammate, sent shockwaves through the Combine on Wednesday.  Carter left the Combine and returned to Georgia to answer the warrants, then turned right back around and came back to Indianapolis on Thursday to finish team interviews. There was a lot of speculation about what will happen and how this affects Carter’s draft stock, but it’s all speculation. According to ESPN, an arraignment hearing in the case was set for April 18.  If legal questions continue to linger come the draft weekend and the situation is not completely resolved in a court of law, Carter’s draft stock will likely plummet. The unknown will adversely affect a prospect’s draft stock more than anything else, whether that’s an unknown medical history, unknown background information, or unknown legal situations.This incident reminded me that just days before the 2015 NFL Draft, reports leaked that police in the state of Louisiana wanted to speak to the former LSU tackle La’el Collins about the shooting death of a pregnant woman he once dated. Collins went from potential top-40 pick to undrafted free agent in a heartbeat despite his lawyer even saying “he’s not a suspect” after questioning.  Getting back to Carter, questions about his trustworthiness will be a topic of discussion between the defensive lineman and teams considering selecting him in the draft. Among reports, it’s claimed that Carter changed his story when questioned by police. This is a massive situation to watch unfold in the next seven weeks.) (3-3-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-takeaways-baker-mayfield-jalen-carter-and-juju-smith-schuster/

Combine Confidential: The Need For Speed (As reported earlier in the week, it has not been a pleasant week of news for fellow Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. After arrest warrants were issued in Athens for reckless driving and racing with another person (misdemeanor charges that carry up to a maximum of one-year in jail), Carter returned back to Indianapolis after he was booked and bonded, in order to finish up his medical examination, along with other combine duties. While he didn’t do any drills, Carter was later seen on-field supporting his fellow defensive line participants. Once considered to be the top overall player in this year’s draft, NFL teams will be forced to do more investigation on the character concerns surrounding Carter.) (3-3-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/combine-confidential-the-need-for-speed

NFL Draft Combine Rumor Mill: How Teams Currently View the Jalen Carter Situation (3-3-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/How-Teams-Currently-View-the-Jalen-Carter-Situation

2023 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Linemen (Down - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Jalen Carter had to leave the combine for an arrest stemming from a racing incident in which someone was killed in January. He didn't work out as a result.) (3-2-23):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2023stockDL.php


2023 NFL Scouting Combine: What We Learned during Thursday's activities in Indianapolis (1. Carter returns to Indianapolis. After being booked and released Wednesday night from the Athens-Clarke County Jail on reckless driving and racing charges, Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter made his way back to the NFL Scouting Combine on Thursday to finish his interviews, measurements and other activities, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a source. Carter did not work out on Thursday, but he was on the field while defensive linemen went through drills.  Carter was the subject of arrest warrants in Athens, Georgia, as a result of an ongoing investigation into a fatal Jan. 15 crash, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department announced on Wednesday.  Carter issued a statement on Wednesday afternoon, saying that he intended to return to Athens "to answer the misdemeanor charges against me and to make certain that the complete and accurate truth is presented." One of the top prospects in this year's draft, Carter did not attend his scheduled press conference on Wednesday morning. Some of his former Georgia teammates participating in the combine were asked about the situation during their press conferences on Thursday."It was just sad to hear," kicker Jack Podlesny said of the news. "As I said, it was just, you know ... I can speak on Jalen's character and he's a great dude. He's always treated me well."  Former Bulldogs safety Christopher Smith II declined to go into much detail when asked about Carter.  "All I have to say is I'm praying for him," he said. -- Dan Parr) (3-2-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-what-we-learned-during-thursday-s-activities-in-indian

Jalen Carter's draft stock a topic of discussion among NFL execs (3-2-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/jalen-carter-draft-stock-a-topic-of-discussion-among-nfl-execs

Jalen Carter, possible Lions target, returns to combine after release from jail (3-2-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/jalen-carter-possible-lions-target-returns-to-combine-after-release-from-jail.html

Top draft prospect Jalen Carter leaves NFL combine to answer arrest warrants (3-2-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/top-draft-prospect-jalen-carter-leaves-nfl-combine-to-answer-arrest-warrants.html


Jalen Carter Dominates NFL Combine News For All The Wrong Reasons (3-1-23):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3547/Jalen-Carter-Dominates-NFL-Combine-News-For-All-The-Wrong-Reasons


Georgia's Jalen Carter responds to charges via Twitter (3-1-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/01/georgias-jalen-carter-responds-to-charges-via-twitter/

What We Learned: 6 combine takeaways from Wed.(6. Carter facing charges: The notable absence from Wednesday's press conferences was Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. He had been scheduled to meet with the media at 10:30 a.m. ET, but there was a change of plans after news broke that he is the subject of arrest warrants in Athens, Georgia, on reckless driving and racing charges as a result of an ongoing investigation into a fatal Jan. 15 car crash.  Carter issued a statement later on Wednesday, saying he intended to return to Athens "to answer the misdemeanor charges against me and to make certain that the complete and accurate truth is presented."  The 21-year-old was rated the top player in the draft by Jeremiah in rankings published on Monday. – Dan Parr) (3-1-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-what-we-learned-from-will-anderson-jr-tyree-wilson-mor

Jalen Carter’s Arrest Dominated the Discussion at the NFL Combine, for Better or Worse (3-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/jalen-carter-nfl-draft-combine-discussion-draft-stock/

Will Deadly January Car Accident Tank Jalen Carter’s Draft Stock? (3-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/will-deadly-january-car-accident-tank-jalen-carters-draft-stock/

TWENTYMAN: Combine Day 1 observations (Breaking news: About 18 minutes before Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter was supposed to talk to media Wednesday, news broke that there's an arrest warrant out for him. The Athens-Clarke County (Georgia) Police Department announced Wednesday that Carter has been charged with reckless driving and racing. Carter did not speak to the media Wednesday.) (3-1-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-combine-day-1-observations-sewell-wilson-morris

Why Jalen Carter May Tumble Down Lions Draft Board (3-1-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jalen-carter-may-tumble-down-lions-draft-board

Arrest warrant issued for Jalen Carter stemming from crash that killed teammate, staff member (3-1-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/01/jalen-carter-arrest-warrant-nfl-draft-georgia-bulldogs-car-accident/

2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 25 Prospects Heading Into NFL Combine Include Jalen Carter, Brian Branch, and Bijan Robinson (1. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  It’s a cigarette paper thin between Jalen Carter and Will Anderson Jr. at the top of our big board. However, Carter’s ludicrous athletic ability, paired with the physical tools to be disruptive as a 6’3″, 310-pound interior pass rusher, gives him a slight advantage as the No. 1 player in the class.) (3-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-big-board-top-25-2023/

2023 NFL combine: Jalen Carter highlights strong DL group for Lions to ponder (Jalen Carter, Georgia: A rush on quarterbacks at the top of the order sure would help make the Jalen Carter to Detroit dream a reality. Carter posted 18.5 tackles for loss and six sacks, with two forced fumbles across three seasons at Georgia. But, much like most interior options, Carter does things that don’t pop off the page from the box score. Pro Football Focus ranks Carter as the second-best prospect on the board, not to mention calling him the best DT prospect since they started grading college in 2014. He’s a 6-foot-3, 300-pound defensive tackle who brings an unmatched level of versatility and power from the defensive line. And at this stage, there aren’t any big gripes with his game. His footwork and athleticism get love, while his work against the run and pass is elite. Carter won 16.3% of his pass rushers and notched a 15.3% run-stop rate. That’s top-of-the-line stuff that fits anywhere.) (2-28-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/02/2023-nfl-combine-jalen-carter-highlights-strong-dl-group-for-lions-to-ponder.html

Top 2023 NFL Draft Prospects To Watch at the 2023 NFL Combine Include Quentin Johnston, Kelee Ringo (DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Last year, the Georgia defenders all put on a show at the NFL Combine. In particular, defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Devonte Wyatt ran 4.78 and 4.77 40-yard dashes, respectively. And yet, Jalen Carter has long been regarded as the most athletic of the 2021 Georgia interior linemen.  Can Carter one-up his teammates’ absurd numbers? He won’t lose any stock if he runs a 4.9 or 5.0, but it’ll be fun to watch and see.) (2-28-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-prospects-nfl-combine-2023/

C.J. Stroud to throw at combine, Bryce Young to wait (Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter will do interviews and his physical in Indianapolis but is electing to do his workout at UGA's pro day, per Rapoport.) (2-27-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/ohio-state-qb-c-j-stroud-to-throw-at-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-alabama-qb-bryce-

NFL Draft: Defensive positional rankings pre-combine (1. Jalen Carter:  During the build up to the 2022 NFL Draft, amid conversations surrounding Jordan Davis and Devonte Wyatt was the narrative that Jalen Carter was the best prospect along that Georgia defensive front. Fast forward a year and Carter is on the doorstep of making good on that claim. It is difficult to find quality interior pass rushers so that makes a player with Carter's skill set even more valuable.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2023-jalen-carter-will-anderson-jr-atop-pre-combine-list-of-best-defensive-prospects-by-position/

Potential Lions Picks Jalen Carter, Tyree Wilson Limited at Combine (Defensive linemen Tyree Wilson and Jalen Carter, players who could be targeted by the Detroit Lions at the No. 6 spot in this year's draft, will not be actively involved in many workouts at this year's combine.  Carter, who is widely considered among the top 10 players coming out of college, will not participate in any workouts this week.  His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told ESPN the 21-year-old lineman will meet with teams for interviews and undergo a physical this week.  After Georgia won back-to-back College Football National Championships, Carter expressed he would be entering the draft and foregoing his senior season with the Bulldogs. ) (2-27-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/potential-lions-picks-limited-at-combine

2023 NFL Draft Wilson Top 25 Big Board: Bryce Young is No. 1; a top-four QB misses the cut (2. Jalen Carter, Georgia, DL,  Georgia:  We've been saying this for months now but it bears repeating: A year ago, Georgia had five defensive players go in the first round, and Carter could end up being better than all of them. He's an athletic freak who can collapse the pocket, and is good against both the run or the pass. He's a no-brainer selection at the top of the draft for a team not looking for a franchise quarterback.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-big-board-bryce-young-is-no-1-a-top-four-qb-misses-the-cut/

10 Defensive Linemen for Lions to Watch at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Considered by some to be the best prospect in the class regardless of position, Carter is a spectacular athlete who can take over a game from the interior. For long stretches at Georgia, he was simply unblockable.  Last year, his teammate Jordan Davis wowed with a 4.78 40-yard dash. While Carter may not repeat that feat, he’s sure to put on a show in the workouts.  Carter is set to be a difference-maker on whatever team chooses to draft him. It’s unlikely he falls to Detroit at No. 6 overall, but an early run on quarterbacks could make the possibility of drafting him more realistic.) (2-26-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-combine-preview-defensive-linemen

2023 NFL Combine preview: 10 defensive tackles the Lions should be watching (Jalen Carter, 3T, Georgia, 6-foot-3:  The No. 1 overall player on Dane Brugler's (The Athletic), Daniel Jeremiah's (NFL.com), and Lance Zierlein’s (NFL.com) Big Boards, Carter is a monster at defeating blocks and disrupting the backfield. Blessed with a rare combination of traits, Carter is explosive, quick, powerful, positionally flexible, and has technique other tackles dream about.) (2-25-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/25/23613277/2023-nfl-combine-preview-10-defensive-tackles-the-lions-should-be-watching

Top Defensive Linemen to Watch at the 2023 NFL Combine: Why Georgia's Jalen Carter Stands Out | You Pod to Win the Game (CHARLES MCDONALD: The best guy also went to my favorite. He went to my favorite university, Georgia Bulldogs, Jalen Carter. He's going to kill this. OK, if I was Jalen Carter, I would not even tie cleats on in Indianapolis next week. I would not even think about testing. Because he's got everything locked up, as far as being-- his floor is what, pick three, to Arizona?  DERRIK KLASSEN: Yeah.  CHARLES MCDONALD: So I don't think he has anything to gain from going next week. But if he does-- which would be, again, it would be a bit of an upset-- he's going to post an all time combine for a defensive player.  DERRIK KLASSEN: What's crazy is he has-- if you imagine what is a 9.5 out of strength, and a 9.5 out of athletic ability for a 300 pounder, he has both of them. You're not supposed to have both. You can have one or the other, and be like a 7 in the other. No dude, he is legitimately about as good as you're going to get for a defensive tackle prospect. I don't know, man. He's going to be a terrier. I don't even think there's a whole lot to say about Carter. He's to me--  CHARLES MCDONALD: Yeah.  DERRIK KLASSEN: The best player in the class.) (2-24-23):  https://sports.yahoo.com/top-defensive-linemen-watch-2023-004827925.html

2023 Combine preview: Defensive tackle (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia, 6-3, 310:  Carter just might be the No. 1 overall prospect in this draft with his rare blend of size, explosiveness and production from the interior. He's athletic enough to line up all across the defensive front. He's got quick feet and terrific hands to be an especially disruptive force in the middle at the next level. Carter put up a 90.0 pass-rush grade last season by Pro Football Focus, second among all Power Five interior defenders.) (2-22-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-combine-preview-defensive-tackle-carter-bresee-smith

Jalen Carter has 'character issues'? Ask the walk-on teammate whose lunches Carter paid for. (2-22-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2023/02/21/jalen-carter-waston-wallace-todd-mcshay/

2023 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Interior defensive line (1. JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (BIG BOARD RANK: 2):  Carter is as good a DT prospect as we've seen since we started grading college in 2014. A complete prospect.) (2-22-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-position-rankings-interior-defensive-line

2023 NFL Draft: Trapasso Top 25 Big Board has C.J. Stroud as top QB, edge rushers galore in pre-combine rankings (5. Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia:  Carter's long, athletic, as strong as a bull and devours blocks and running backs inside. He was the best defender on Georgia's unfairly loaded defense in 2021 and after returning from injury in 2022 was essentially unblockable on the inside. He is the exact type of versatile defensive lineman teams should be prioritizing to disrupt the line of scrimmage in the modern game.) (2-21-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-big-board-has-c-j-stroud-as-top-qb-edge-rushers-galore-in-pre-combine-rankings/


Bucky Brooks' top five 2023 NFL Draft prospects by position 1.0: Stroud, Young, Hooker top QB rankings (1.  Jalen Carter:  The 2023 DT pool offers some high-end prospects with blue-chip potential. Carter is an extra-large freak athlete with a disruptive presence. The Georgia standout flashes a rare combination of explosive first-step quickness and heavy hands, allowing him to wreck games as a run stopper/pocket pusher.)  (2-16-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-top-five-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-1-0-stroud-young-hook

CBS Edwards Top-25 prospect rankings feature QBs, elite defenders (1. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  It is difficult to find impactful interior defensive linemen so those who do have that potential are often pushed higher in the rankings. Carter is quicker than fast and has the natural strength to push the pocket. He recorded just six sacks over the past two years but that was largely because of the scheme and the reality that he was playing alongside two first-round interior defensive line picks: Jordan Davis and Devonte Wyatt. Look at the impact Chris Jones, Jeffery Simmons and other interior defenders are able to have lining up over the quickest gap to the quarterback.) (2-15-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-bryce-young-c-j-stroud-nipping-on-the-heels-of-elite-defenders-in-top-25-prospect-rankings/

NFL Draft prospects who resemble Super Bowl stars (Chiefs DT Chris Jones --> Georgia DT Jalen Carter:  Jones was a long, somewhat sleek interior defensive line prospect who, somehow, slipped to the second round of the 2016 draft after a super-productive career as a dynamic, pass-rush-move extraordinaire at Mississippi State. Now, Carter probably won't make it out of the top 5, so that's a distinct difference between the two.  From a style perspective, however, they're so reminiscent of each other. Jones wins with a ridiculous first step, long arms, and deceptive power. That's the one-sentence scouting report on Carter, who was insanely disruptive over the past two seasons at Georgia and, somehow, even stood out in 2021 on a defensive line that featured three future first-round defensive linemen! Jones is a little taller and longer than Carter -- he was 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds at the 2016 combine. Other than that, from a physical, athletic and stylistic comparison, they're damn close.) (2-13-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-super-bowl-whos-the-next-travis-kelce-the-next-chris-jones-nfl-draft-prospects-who-resemble-stars/

2023 NFL Draft: How teams should copy Super Bowl champion Chiefs by adding similarly skilled prospects (Long, disruptive, athletic defensive tackle - For Chiefs: Chris Jones.  2023 prospects to fit this role: Georgia's Jalen Carter, Bowling Green's Karl Brooks, Texas' Moro Ojomo, Oklahoma's Jalen Redmond. I made the Carter-Jones comparison last week. It's too perfect. And it's only relevant for probably the clubs picking in the top 5. Carter moves like a defensive end but is powerful like a nose tackle and has a Jones-type long frame. Later in the draft -- remember, Jones was a second-round pick) (2-13-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/super-bowl-2023-lessons-teams-can-learn-from-the-chiefs-and-eagles-including-prioritizing-offensive-line/

2023 NFL Draft Guide: Strengths, weaknesses and NFL roles for PFF's top draft prospects (DI JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA - Where he wins: Power.  Carter puts out teaching tape every week on how to explode into contact, and the results speak for themselves. He can really jolt an offensive lineman on contact.  What’s his role: Versatile DT.  Carter’s frame trends more toward a three-technique, but he’s more than capable of lining up anywhere between the tackles and making plays.  What can he Improve: Very little.  Anything I put here will be a minor gripe, so I’m not going to quibble. Carter has the goods.) (2-13-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-guide-strengths-weaknesses-and-roles-for-pffs-top-draft-prospects

Teams Feel 2023 NFL Draft Lacks Elite Talent (This year, teams feel the 2023 NFL Draft lacks elite talent overall. Sources from seven different NFL teams told WalterFootball.com the only player who had received an elite grade was Texas running back Bijan Robinson.  The consensus top-two prospects for the 2023 NFL Draft have been Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson and Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. All seven team sources, however, said their organizations do not have an elite grade on either of them. As previously noted in the Hot Press, Anderson carries skill-set concerns, while teams don't like parts of Carter's make up namely they question his work ethic and if he really loves football. Multiple sources also question why Carter did not produce more when he was so much more talented than the blockers he was facing.  "Carter is gifted no doubt, but I don't see a Ndamukong Such- or Quinnen Williams-caliber of player. He may have similar size, power, and quickness to those two, but they were way more polished and productive with rushing the passer at this point. Carter is not Darrell Russell, Richard Seymour or Albert Haynesworth caliber like some of the talking heads have compared him to.") (1-17-23):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Teams-Feel-2023-NFL-Draft-Lacks-Elite-Talent

2023 NFL draft film room: Georgia DL Jalen Carter (1-14-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-jalen-carter-georgia-highlights/

Detroit Lions 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Best-Case Scenario Brought to Life at No. 6 Overall (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia | Round 1, Pick 6:  This is the best-case scenario for the Lions. Jalen Carter, a prospect worthy of the No. 1 overall pick, falling to sixth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. It’s not the likeliest outcome, but it’s not out of the question. With so many QB-needy teams and so few quality quarterback prospects, a bidding war in the top five could bring Carter to Detroit on a silver platter.  Of course, this first assumes that Detroit isn’t a part of the QB drama and decides to roll with Jared Goff. If they do, they’ll be freed up to take a talent like Carter. With his elite explosiveness, natural leverage, power, and prying strength, Carter would be an immediate difference-maker on the interior defensive line.) (1-12-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-mock-draft-january/

Georgia vs. TCU: Top prospects to watch in the National Championship Game (Georgia DL Jalen Carter:  A dominant interior presence, Carter should be a top-five lock, and possibly the first non-quarterback off the board.) (1-9-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/georgia-tcu-national-championship-game-nfl-draft-prospects/

Georgia vs. TCU 2023 NFL Draft Prospects To Watch in College Football Playoff National Championship (Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia:  Jalen Carter has exceeded all my expectations this season and legitimately grades as a top-5 pick. Carter will grade as the top prospect of the entire draft and could end up as such with the Chicago Bears now owning the first selection.  Carter stepped up his game in every aspect this season, and despite three of his defensive line teammates being selected in the first round of last April’s draft, he was a dominant force opponents could not contain. But he’s not superhuman, as Luke Wypler proved last week. Carter will have his work cut out for him against TCU guard Steve Avila when they face-off.) (1-9-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/georgia-vs-tcu-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-national-championship/

2023 NFL Draft: Prospect Matchups to Watch in the National Championship Game (TCU OL Steve Avila, Alan Ali vs. Georgia DT Jalen Carter - Jalen Carter is playing in a National Championship game again, and onlookers couldn’t be happier. This year, without prospects like Jordan Davis, Devonte Wyatt, and Travon Walker alongside him, we’ll get to see Carter truly shine as the premier playmaker on the front.  That is, if the TCU offensive line doesn’t have anything to say about it. Carter will face some resistance on the interior. Alan Ali is an experienced SMU transfer at center, while Steve Avila is a powerful guard with a wide reach and venerable knock-back power in his strikes.  Carter has the explosiveness, lateral agility, natural leverage, and awesome raw power to remain disruptive in this one. But odds are, TCU will send more than one double-team from this pair in his direction. How Carter responds will be worth watching.) (1-9-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-the-national-championship-game/

Top 2023 NFL Draft prospects to watch in the national championship game (DT JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA: Speaking of back-to-back incredible seasons, Carter is set to finish 2022-23 with his second elite pass-rushing grade in two seasons. Going into the game, he has a 90.1 pass-rush grade and a 91.1 run-defense grade on the season. At 6-foot-3 and 300 pounds, Carter is one of the fastest yet strongest interior players in college football. He was No. 5 on PFF’s December big board and could be in line to be a top-three overall selection in April.) (1-9-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-national-championship-game-georgia-tcu

Scouting Georgia vs. TCU: The top NFL draft prospects to watch (Who is the best Georgia prospect and why?  The easy answer to this question would appear to be junior defensive tackle Jalen Carter, a projected top-three pick in the draft, but one wouldn’t know it based on how he played against Ohio State in the Peach Bowl. Though he proclaimed himself 100% healthy prior to the game, the ankle injury which had been plaguing Carter seemed to affect him. The powerful 6-foot-3, 310-pounder was credited with just a single tackle (as well as a pass breakup) and, frankly, was made a non-factor by quality blocking from Ohio State’s talented offensive line, as well as clever play-calling to keep the action away from Carter, a consensus All-American.  When Carter is healthy, however, he can overwhelm opponents with his power and quickness, wreaking havoc inside at a much higher rate than his statistics (30 tackles, including seven for loss and three sacks) might suggest. Even a season ago, Carter — then just a 20-year-old true sophomore — was viewed by many scouts as a better prospect than either of his teammates Jordan Davis or Devonte Wyatt, both of whom were selected in the first round this past spring. Carter projects similarly to the Titans’ Jeffery Simmons, who has been named a Pro Bowler in two of his first four NFL seasons.) (1-6-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/the-must-see-nfl-prospects-playing-in-the-national-championship

Meet 10 top prospects of 2023 draft class: What to know about Young, Stroud, Anderson, Carter (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (Reid's current ranking: No. 2 overall (DT1)):  2022 stats: Carter has 3 sacks, 6 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. He has also added 20 pressures.  Who is Carter? He hails from Apopka, Florida -- the same hometown as former NFL defensive tackle Warren Sapp -- and was a consensus four-star prospect (the No. 3-ranked defensive tackle in the country). Carter started his Georgia career as a rotational player in his true freshman year and then recorded two starts in 2021 for what's considered to be one of the best college defenses ever. Despite there being three first-round picks along that national champion defensive line, some still considered Carter to be the unit's best player.  This season, Carter battled through a knee injury suffered during the team's fifth game, causing him to miss two contests. But he still played in 11 games (seven starts), and it was obvious that the Bulldogs' defense is on another level when he is up the middle.  Standout trait: He has a natural ability to penetrate the first level and cause instant disruption. Carter has an explosive first step and complements it with strong hands at the point of attack to puncture and finish plays behind the line of scrimmage.  What's next? Carter is not eligible for any postseason all-star contests, but Georgia is the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, and many eyes will be on him against Ohio State in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. -- Reid) (12-30-22):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2023/story/_/id/35306956/2023-nfl-draft-prospects-know-strengths-rankings-next-bryce-young-cj-stroud-levis-jalen-carter-anderson-jr-bijan-robinson

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 defensive tackle prospects (1. JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (JUNIOR | 6-3, 300) (2022 Grade: 92.7, Play Style: Complete DT, Initial Round Projection: Top Five):  Carter has put together a viable case for being the best defensive tackle prospect in the PFF era. Quinnen Williams is the current title holder coming out of Alabama in 2019, but there were some worries about his game that don’t apply to Carter. Williams was a one-year wonder who broke out in his redshirt sophomore season, while Carter had the highest pass-rushing grade on the vaunted 2021 Georgia defensive line as a sophomore. Williams didn’t have elite strength but made up for it with elite quicks, while Carter’s play strength is off the charts.  At a minimum, the run Carter has been on since returning from an early-season ankle injury is the most dominant these eyes have seen at the position since PFF started grading college in 2014. From Week 9 on, Carter has earned a 93.0 overall grade to lead the country.  He’ll head into the 2023 draft as the top non-quarterback on PFF’s draft board.) (12-29-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-defensive-tackle-rankings

Top 10 DTs in the 2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Carter Stands Tall on the Interior (1. Jalen Carter, Georgia:  Before the season, Jalen Carter was our DT1. Now, with the regular season concluded, Jalen Carter remains our DT1. It’s not a matter of sticking to one’s guns, however. Carter’s 2022 tape simply confirmed his standing as the 2023 NFL Draft’s top defensive tackle prospect.  Comparisons for Carter have been made to New York Jets star Quinnen Williams, and they’re not far off. Carter has elite explosiveness and power at 6’3″, 305 pounds, with the proportional length and prying strength to be a destructive force in both phases. He’s a blue-chip talent at one of the most important positions in the game today.) (12-21-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls II (Down - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  As we reported in the Hot Press, while Carter looks destined to end up as a top-10 pick next April in the 2023 NFL Draft, team sources say they have makeup concerns with Carter. Sources note that scouts have heard around Georgia that Carter is not a hard worker, and they do not believe that he loves football. It is not uncommon for prospects who are supremely talented to not be hard workers. They are so physically gifted that things have come easy so far, and they have not had to work exceptionally hard to be elite at college level. However, that changes in the NFL, where teams want players who have a good work ethic and love to play football. Carter has developed a reputation of not being a worker or loving football, so that could rub some franchises picking high in the first round the wrong way.) (12-20-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_16.php

2023 NFL Draft: Reacting to the AP All-American First Team Selections (First-Round Picks:  As for the defense, the first team has a couple of first-round locks. Alabama EDGE Will Anderson Jr. and Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter could each go in the first five picks. Anderson is probably going to be a polarizing player throughout the draft process. Some analysts found his performance this season underwhelming. But others point out that while Anderson’s stats may be somewhat down this year, part of the reason is that opposing offenses have focused more intently on Anderson with double teams, chip blocks, and shifts in pass protection. With respect to Carter, the latest news about the Georgia standout is that ESPN NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay recently called Carter’s character into question, after which a few of Carter’s teammates immediately came to his defense. Carter’s talent means he is going to get a shot somewhere.) (12-18-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-reacting-to-the-ap-all-american-first-team-selections

NFL Hot Press: Teams Have Makeup Concerns with Jalen Carter (12-15-22):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Teams-Have-Makeup-Concerns-with-Jalen-Carter


Know Your Foe: Georgia Football Players to Watch Ahead of the National Championship (DL #88 Jalen Carter (Five-star Defensive Lineman from Apopka, Florida. Junior):  The 6-3 300 lb. defensive lineman is one of the best defensive players in the nation. He causes many problems for offenses because he is powerful and quick. Carter has excellent instincts and can locate the ball quickly. In addition, he is very good at spinning through lines. The TCU O-Line is very talented and can handle the challenge, just like they managed Michigan's large defensive front.) (12-7-22):   https://www.si.com/college/tcu/football/know-your-foe-georgia-football-players-national-championship

2022 All-SEC College Football Team and Individual Honors (All-SEC Defense Honors - Defensive Lineman of the Year
Jalen Carter, Georgia.  First-Team All-SEC Defense - DT: Jalen Carter, Georgia) (12-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-sec-college-football-team-and-individual-honors-2022/

CFN’s College Football All-Americans 2022 (First-Team Defense - DT: Jalen Carter, Georgia) (12-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfn-college-football-all-americans-2022/

2023 NFL Draft: Live Scouting Jalen Carter VS LSU (12-3-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-live-scouting-jalen-carter-vs-lsu

2022 SEC Championship Game: Top NFL Draft Prospects to Watch Include Jayden Daniels and Jalen Carter (DT Jalen Carter:  Remember how Georgia dominated the first round in April, with a record five selections from their national title-winning defense in the first round? Well, it turns out that haul didn’t even include the best player on that dominant unit. Jalen Carter has spent the season proving he’s one of the best defensive prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, if not the number one overall prospect.  Carter has already had one sensational performance in a marquee game this season, blowing away Tennessee with two tackles for loss, one sack, and two forced fumbles. It would be no surprise to see him dominate the SEC Championship Game against a young LSU offensive line.  From snap to whistle, Carter is a dominant example of how to play the DT position. An explosive first step is just the start of an exceptional athletic profile. With power and violence, he possesses the physical tools to succeed. The Georgia DT already has a pass-rush plan brimming with the tools of the trade. Monster is an overused adjective in football. That’s not the case with Carter.) (12-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-sec-championship-game-top-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch/

College Football: The top 15 NFL Draft prospects in Championship Week (1. Georgia DT Jalen Carter - NFL draft grade: First round.  Arguably college football's most gifted lineman on either side of the ball, Carter might have challenged former teammate Walker to be the No. 1 overall selection in the 2022 NFL draft had he been eligible. There is no doubt in my mind that he would have been selected over fellow Georgia first-round defensive tackles Jordan Davis (Philadelphia) and Devonte Wyatt (Green Bay). Carter is much more concerning to opponents than his relatively pedestrian numbers (25 tackles, five tackles for loss and two sacks) would suggest. Boasting explosive quickness and power, Carter demands double teams, wreaking havoc on the interior and creating easy opportunities for his teammates to pad their statistics. While a talented team, LSU has struggled this season in pass protection. The Tigers have surrendered 41 sacks in 12 games, tying for 121st in the nation in this category. Don't be surprised if Carter pads his own numbers and helps boost those of his teammates in a dominating performance in Atlanta. Like Murphy one spot ahead of him, Carter will likely be a top-five pick this spring.) (12-1-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/college-football-the-top-15-nfl-draft-prospects-in-championship-weekend

Top 10 2023 NFL Draft prospects to watch during conference championship weekend (DT JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA:  Jalen Carter is the highest-rated defensive line prospect on PFF’s big board (No. 5 overall) who will be suiting up for championship weekend. The Georgia interior lineman is poised to be drafted in the top five in 2023 thanks to back-to-back seasons of 85.0-plus pass-rush grades. He’s in contention to be the first non-quarterback taken in the class.) (12-1-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-10-2023-prospects-conference-championship-weekend-college-football

2022 PFF College All-SEC Team: Tennessee WR Jalin Hyatt, Alabama EDGE Will Anderson Jr. and more (FIRST TEAM - DI Jalen Carter, Georgia) (11-30-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2022-pff-all-sec-team-tennessee-jalin-hyatt-alabama-will-anderson-jr

Jalen Carter update: Status on Bulldogs' DL for Georgia vs. Florida game (Carter initially injured the MCL in his knee during Georgia's victory over Missouri and missed the last two games, victories over Auburn and Vanderbilt.) (11-29-22):  https://www.si.com/fannation/college/cfb-hq/ncaa-football/georgia-football-jalen-carter-update-florida-game

College Football Week 11: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK - DI: Jalen Carter, Georgia Bulldogs) (11-14-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-11-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

College Football Week 11 Live Reactions, Results, and Takeaways (Carter Looks Every Bit an Early First-Round Prospect.  7:30 p.m. — I took a bit of a wait-and-see approach towards Jalen Carter entering the season, and the junior has definitely made a believer of me. What’s most exciting is that Carter seems to be playing better each week and fully transitioning his athletic ability into football production. Last week, he dominated Tennessee’s offensive line, making several game-impacting plays. He’s off to a hot start this evening against Mississippi State. TP) (11-12-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-11-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

NFL Draft News and Rumors Mailbag: Talking Quentin Johnston, Bo Nix, and More (Q: Any updates on Jalen Carter after his performance against Tennessee?  Carter played exceptionally well and looked incredibly athletic, forcing the action. One thing I don’t do, and no one should, is have a big swing in a prospect’s grade off of a single game or single performance.) (11-11-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-and-rumors-mailbag-week-11-2022/

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Week 10 (Up - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Carter is the top consensus interior defensive line prospect for the 2023 NFL Draft, and he proved why against Tennessee. Previously, Carter was out for a few games with a strained MCL suffered against Missouri. He returned versus Florida, but he played very limited snaps against the Gators. The Bulldogs seemed to be getting Carter ready for Tennessee, as he played more and made two huge forced fumbles to help lead the Bulldogs to their win.  In the first quarter, Carter fought off his block and strip-sacked Volunteeers quarterback Hendon Hooker in the end zone. Carter notched another second forced fumble in the third quarter when he darted behind the line and punched the ball out from behind the running back. Aside from those big plays, Carter held his ground in run defense and created a push as a a rusher.  For the NFL, Carter is a fast and athletic interior lineman with the strength to shed blocks. He could be a versatile tackle with the power to play nose tackle and the speed to be a three-technique. Team sources feel Carter is a better prospect than Jordan Davis or Devante Wyatt, and Carter's performance against the Volunteers only reinforced that. Carter could end up as an early selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (11-8-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_10.php

College Football Week 10: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK - DI: Jalen Carter, Georgia Bulldogs) (11-8-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-10-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

Week 10 College Football Team of the Week: Tanner Mordecai Makes History for SMU (Defensive Interior: Jalen Carter, Georgia:  The final book will read four tackles, one sack, and two tackles for loss for Jalen Carter. But against Tennessee, it was the way Carter bullied his way up and down their offensive line that set the tone and ultimately was one of the difference-makers for the Bulldogs.  Carter forced two fumbles inside of those tackles for loss, one on a strip sack in the end zone of Hendon Hooker and the other as the rain started to pour in the second half on the ground game. Both essentially turned into points as a pinned-back punt attempt gave UGA a short field and a one-play scoring drive, and the next set up a scoring drive as well.  Carter’s impact in the lineup came when Georgia needed him most. Without star pass rusher Nolan Smith, Carter stepped up the pressure after Robert Beal Jr. went out with injury and applied even more heat. It was too much for Tennessee to handle.) (11-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-week-10-2022/

Jalen Carter dominates (again) as Georgia topples Tennessee (11-5-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2022/11/05/georgia-tennessee-jalen-carter-nfl-draft/

College Football Week 10 Live Reactions, Results, and Takeaways (Jalen Carter Is Absurd — But What Else Is New?  4:25 p.m. — At this point, we don’t need any more added confidence that Jalen Carter is a blue-chip prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft and a likely top-five pick. But that’s not going to stop Carter from proving it time and time again each passing week.  He’s already made a heavy impact in today’s game against Tennessee. On the Volunteers’ most recent drive, he nearly caused a safety, and engineered a crucial third-down stop, regardless.  On third down, with Tennessee backed up, Carter exploded off the line, loaded his base behind him, and hit the right guard with a brutal, powerful push inside the torso. He fully extended and latched, then pulled back violently as soon as he did so, pried around with an arm-over move, and launched into the QB to force a fumble. It was a masterful display of burst, power, leverage, and hand usage — and it’s why Carter is elite. IC) (11-5-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-10-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

Kiper Jr. NFL draft rankings: Potential Lions targets; rising U-M star (Carter, who missed two games in October because of a knee injury, moved up one spot since Kiper's last rankings, swapping places with Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud.  "Even though he was on a snap count, his impact was apparent on passing downs," Kiper writes. "Georgia had five defenders picked in Round 1 last April, and Carter arguably was more disruptive than all of them last season. He's explosive at the snap and finishes well around the ball, even though he didn't put up huge numbers (8.5 tackles for loss). He has a big frame and can play as a 3-technique tackle. I want to see him be a little more consistent, but NFL teams will bet on his ceiling.") (11-5-22):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/2022/11/05/detroit-lions-mel-kiper-jr-nfl-draft-2023-michigan-football-stars/69621483007/

NFL Draft News and Rumors Mailbag: Max Duggan’s Pro Prospects, and is Steele Chambers Entering the Draft? (Q: How high can Jalen Carter be drafted?  I need to watch more of Carter to give a truly educated opinion. I had him graded coming into the 2021 season and while I like him, I don’t see the potential top-five player some are touting. That could change after I really delve into the UGA film.) (11-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-and-rumors-mailbag-week-10-2022/

Defensive stars set to steal the spotlight in college football Week 10 (With all due respect to the rest of Georgia's deep cast, the star in the middle of Athens is Jalen Carter, who entered this year ranked second overall on my personal NFL draft Big Board.  Few 300-pounders boast Carter’s first-step quickness and agility. He combines that mobility with awesome strength to simply overwhelm would-be blockers at the point of attack. Tennessee has the skill position talent to play (and beat) anyone in the country, but its offensive line has struggled to consistently generate movement, especially along the interior. There are popcorn-worthy matchups all over the field in this contest, but none of them will matter much if the Vols can't slow down Carter inside. ) (11-3-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/scouting-college-football-week-10-defensive-stars-set-to-steal-the-spotlight

College Football Week 9 Live Reactions, Results, and Takeaways (Jalen Carter’s Presence Makes a Noticeable Difference:  4:05 p.m. — Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter is back from injury for the first time in a while today. His presence has made a noticeable positive difference on the line for the Bulldogs. It doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet with Carter, but his explosive disruptive capabilities routinely cause discord on the interior for blockers.  On Florida’s most recent drive, Carter rocketed up the middle and blasted his man back on an inside run, stuffing that carry. A couple snaps later, Carter used a brutal swim move to sear through the B-gap and used his ankle flexion and explosiveness to force Richardson out of the pocket to the left side, nearly causing a sack. Carter is a force of chaos. Now healthy, he’s reminding the nation why he’s a blue-chip prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft. IC) (10-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-9-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

Top 2023 NFL Draft Prospects: Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud Heads a Talented Class (3. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Despite all their success in the previous cycle, it may appear ludicrous to state that the best of the Georgia Bulldogs’ prospects from last year’s national championship-winning side might actually reside in the 2023 NFL draft. However, ludicrous is about as accurate and apt a word as you can use to describe defensive tackle Jalen Carter.  Like those Bulldogs brutes before him, Carter’s athleticism beggars belief, with the agility of a man half his 6’3″, 310-pound size. He’s a genuine difference-maker with the technical tools to weaponize his astonishing athletic accomplishments. An MCL injury has halted his ascension up draft boards this fall, but it would be a foolish man who bets against him earning significant attention next April.) (10-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospects/

2023 NFL Draft: The Top Prospect on Each of the Remaining Undefeated College Football Teams (Georgia: DL Jalen Carter - Despite an injury-plagued season, Carter remains the top prospect on the Bulldogs. He has missed time this year with both an ankle injury and a knee injury, and it is unclear how much of Carter we are going to see down the stretch for Georgia. Nevertheless, he has put enough on tape to justify getting picked in the early first round. Carter sheds blockers like an NFL veteran and displays rare strength along the defensive line. On top of that, Carter boasts impressive agility and closing speed. He is truly a complete player.) (10-24-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-draft-the-top-prospect-on-each-of-the-remaining-undefeated-college-football-teams

Jalen Carter Exits Georgia vs Missouri with Injury (10-1-22):   https://www.si.com/college/georgia/news/football-jalen-carter-exits-georgia-game-injury

Why Georgia DL Jalen Carter Is Prospect Lions Should Watch (9-24-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-prospect-profile-jalen-carter

Scouting Notebook: Top 2023 NFL Draft prospects at every position and more (TOP DI: JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA - Challengers: Bryan Bresee (Clemson).  Carter is still that dude despite a 73.5 overall grade through three weeks. He has been dealing with an ankle injury while barely playing so far (59 total snaps). That’s opened the door slightly for former No. 1 overall recruit Bryan Bresee. The Clemson defensive tackle looked much improved as a pass-rusher in two games (82.9 pass-rushing grade) before missing last week after a death in the family. ) (9-22-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-top-2023-prospects

Lions 2023 draft watch: 7 prospects to watch (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (redshirt sophomore)
6-foot-3, 310 pounds - Carter might not only be the best defensive tackle in this class, but, he might challenge Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson as the top defensive player in this class. Even with a couple of high-upside quarterbacks and Anderson expected to be drafted near the top of this draft cycle, it’s still very likely Carter is taken in the top five picks. He is that impactful.  With and explosive first step and an arsenal of pass rush moves, Carter can pretty much go wherever he needs to on the field. Need him to pass rush? No problem. Chase down a running back on a backside screen? He’s got that range. Hold the gap and defeat the block and stop the running back? Yup, he can do that too.  Despite Georgia having Travon Walker, Jordan Davis, and Devonte Wyatt all drafted in the first round of last year’s class, there are some that would argue that Carter was better than all of them—he just wasn’t draft eligible.) (9-17-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/9/17/23350292/detroit-lions-2023-draft-watch-7-prospects-watch-defensive-tackle-jalen-carter-zacch-pickens


2023 NFL Draft Prospects Rising After Week 2 (Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia:  The NFL may have gutted much of the Bulldogs’ defense, but there’s still a foundational piece left as the reigning champs reload. There are some NFL talent evaluators who actually thought Carter was better than all-world talent Jordan Davis due to being a bit more usable in pure passing situations. This space won’t serve to argue that point, but it will serve to show that guess what? He played only 18 snaps in Week 2 against FCS Samford because, well, it’s Samford. But his dominating showing against Oregon shows he’s still great as he takes over as the primary force in the middle for the Dawgs.) (9-14-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2022/09/13/nfl-draft-prospects-risers-college-football

Top 2023 NFL Draft Prospects (4. Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia:  As a sophomore in 2021, Carter was a key piece of one of the best defenses in college football history. The second-team All-SEC selection was part of a defensive line that included three first-round picks (Travon Walker, Jordan Davis, Devonte Wyatt) and he'll be the fourth in 2023. Carter had 37 tackles, three sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss and 33 quarterback pressures for the title-winning Bulldogs as a sophomore in 2021. Expect even more from his junior year.  At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, Carter has incredible quickness for his size. On film it feels like he's in the backfield on every play. He has a quick first step off the line as a pass rusher and uses his lower half to power his way past offensive linemen. He's a bull against the run, but is just as adept going side-to-side as forward. He's flat-out explosive. Much like Walker, Carter needs to translate that talent into numbers this season if he wants to be a top five pick. Walker didn't really do that, but was taken No. 1 overall because the Jacksonville Jaguars are banking on the talent leading to production. Carter may not get the same grace from NFL teams.) (9-6-22):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/top-nfl-draft-prospects-2023-01gbngztsytg

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Week 1 (Up - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  Carter flashed special ability against Oregon in the 2022 opener, but did not have a huge statistical game thanks to the Bulldogs blowing out the Ducks. Oregon's offense struggled to create first downs against Georgia.  A number of NFL scouts told WalterFootball.com they say believe Carter is a better prospect than either of the two former Bulldogs defensive tackles who went in Round 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft, Jordan Davis or Devonte Wyatt. "[Carter] is a better player than Davis or Wyatt," said an AFC area scout. "He is really good and should be a top pick."  Carter entered the 2022 season as one of the top prospects for the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-3, 310-pounder showed a serious skill set last season and additional upside to develop. On the year, Carter recorded 37 tackles and three sacks in a backup role. Some advance scouts gave him with the second-highest preseason grade, behind only Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson.  If Carter can stay consistent with last year's play in 2022 while taking on a big work load, the junior could end up being one of the first players selected in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (9-6-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_01.php

18 Players Who Raised 2023 NFL Draft Stock This Weekend (Jalen Carter IDL, Georgia:  My goodness, Carter looked like he was playing ankle-biters against the Oregon Ducks. A bonafide top-10 NFL draft talent that will only improve—frighteningly—as he earns more reps within the trenches, there isn’t a single lineman in the country that can hold his lunch.) (9-5-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/college-football-week-1-raised-nfl-draft-stock/

Jalen Carter seems determined to prove that he's still Georgia's best defender (9-3-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2022/09/03/georgia-dl-jalen-carter-oregon/

Watch: Highlights from Georgia's top draft prospects vs. Oregon (9-3-22):  https://thefalconswire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-georgia-oregon-jalen-carter-kendall-milton/

College Football Week 1 Live Reactions, Results, And Takeaways (Jalen Carter shows up early for Georgia
4:42 PM: Georgia DT Jalen Carter shows up early against Oregon. Carter jumped the snap, used his strength against Oregon’s guard, and blew up the intended point of attack on a third and short that stymied the running back. Carter is no stranger to pre-snap jumps but the strength to finish plays and blow up intended rushing lanes is on display early in 2022. CM) (9-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-1-live-reactions/

2023 NFL Draft Board: Top Prospect Battles To Watch In Week 1 (Georgia DT Jalen Carter vs. Oregon OL T.J. Bass, Alex Forsyth - Nobody knows the kind of impact Jalen Carter can have better than Oregon’s Lanning. But there’s only so much he can do to minimize Carter’s impact. Much of the responsibility will fall on the shoulders of interior blockers Alex Forsyth and T.J. Bass.  For Forsyth, who returns in a crowded center class, this game will be big. The same goes for Bass, who quietly has the size and athleticism to potentially be a factor down the road. Carter supersedes both with his traits, but that’s not a slight to either one. Carter’s explosiveness is a tier above, and he can pry open lanes with his strength.) (9-2-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-board-top-prospect-battles-to-watch-in-week-1/

SEC 2023 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports include Bryce Young, Will Levis, and others (Jalen Carter, DT | Grade: 3.88 | Projected Round: 2 - Defensive tackle Jalen Carter must now step to the forefront after three of his linemates were selected in the first round. Carter is quick like Devonte Wyatt, though he’s a bit taller and more athletic. He’s a better pass rusher than Jordan Davis and is slightly stronger than Travon Walker. Carter is still rough around the edges and must add bulk to his frame as well as complete his game. Presently, he holds an early Day 2 grade on my board.) (8-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/sec-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-and-scouting-reports/

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 players at every position (Interior defensive linemen - 1. Jalen Carter, Georgia:  That rightful claim to be the 2023 NFL Draft’s top player also has an argument from Jalen Carter. The big man from Georgia draws comparisons to Warren Sapp for great reasons, but he’s a much more well-rounded athlete.) (8-26-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-10-players-at-every-position/

2023 NFL Draft: Alabama's Bryce Young, Kentucky's Will Levis headline top-10 SEC prospects (2. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia: Carter is a deceptive 310 pounds because he carries it so well. His decision to wear No. 88 certainly does not make his situation any less confusing. The Florida native has good top-end speed and athleticism. He is quick to split gaps but also has the strength to dictate action in the run game.  The third-year player created pressure on 13% of his pass rushes last season, according to TruMedia. He recorded a tackle on 17.1% of run defense snaps. ) (8-25-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-alabamas-bryce-young-kentuckys-will-levis-headline-top-10-sec-prospects/

PFN's All-SEC team honors ahead of the 2022 college football season (SEC Defensive Player of the Year - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia: Jalen Carter may surprise some as the top defensive player in the conference, but the big man in the middle for Georgia is every bit of a top player across the country. Carter has some of the best interior pass-rush moves not just this season but that we’ve seen in decades. Comparing him to Warren Sapp is all too easy because it jumps off the screen. He’ll be in the running for the Heisman Trophy before the season is over.  Defensive All-SEC team and player honors - SEC DL of the Year:  Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia) (8-13-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/preseason-all-sec-team-honors-2022/

PFN Preseason All-SEC Team 2022: Bryce Young set to lead Alabama, SEC this fall (Defense | First team - DT: Jalen Carter, Georgia) (8-13-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pfn-preseason-all-sec-team-2022/

PFN College Football All-Americans 2022: C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba take top honors (Defense | First  - DT: Jalen Carter, Georgia) (8-8-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pfn-college-football-all-americans-2022/

Top Georgia Bulldog Prospects to Watch in 2023 NFL Draft (DT Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter:  Arguably the best player returning in college football, Carter possesses the skilpl set to be the best defensive tackle in the NFL. His athleticism, power and explosiveness are all rare, and he does an excellent job against the run and has an NFL-ready frame. If Carter has another successful season, he'll be a top-five selection in the 2023 draft.) (7-29-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/top-georgia-bulldog-prospects-to-watch-2023-nfl-draft

Scouting Jalen Carter: Georgia defensive lineman's disruptive skill set reminiscent of Quinnen Williams (7-21-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/scouting-jalen-carter-georgia-defensive-lineman-s-disruptive-skill-set-reminisce


Early 2023 NFL Draft DI Rankings: Georgia's Jalen Carter, Clemson's Bryan Bresee lead the pack (1. JALEN CARTER, GEORGIA (JUNIOR):  You couldn’t digest analysis about one of the three Georgia first-round defensive linemen in the 2022 NFL Draft without someone bringing up the scheme and how it held them back from being more productive as pass-rushers. While those points were certainly valid, it only serves to show how special Carter is. He racked up 34 pressures on 264 pass-rushing snaps for a 90.0 pass-rushing grade in 2021 — the highest of any defensive tackle in the country.  Carter is a certifiably scheme-proof talent. At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds with long arms, a powerful frame and cat-like quicks, Carter is the total package at the position. While we’ve seen a number of edge prospects over the years impact the passing game early in their NFL careers, PFF hasn’t graded a defensive tackle prospect as good as Carter was as a true sophomore. He is a future top-five pick.) (6-15-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-interior-defender-rankings

Georgia’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo (Jalen Carter, DT:  Jalen Carter is a genuine difference-maker at the heart of the defensive line. Like former teammate Jordan Davis, Carter attracts his share of double-teams that allow his teammates to succeed. Where he differs from Davis (aside from obvious size differences) is that he possesses the tools to be a constant threat in all phases of the game. Carter’s combination of high-level athletic ability, incredible power and violence, and a pass-rush toolbox already brimming with moves, makes Carter a clear early-first round prospect.) (6-14-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/georgias-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-jalen-carter-kelee-ringo/

2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notebook: Early prospect grades and five matchups to watch in Week 1 (Will Anderson, Bijan Robinson, Jalen Carter all blue-chip prospects - Admittedly, I need a larger sample size with my grading scale before I can outline specific round and range thresholds. But there’s one that’s been fairly distinct so far, and that’s the 8.5 threshold. Players who score above 8.5 tend to be in a realm of their own in terms of talent. Only three prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft scored above an 8.5. And so far, only three have preliminary grades over 8.5 in the 2023 class. Those three are Will Anderson, Bijan Robinson, and Jalen Carter.  8.5 and above is developing into a “blue-chip” range for prospects, and Anderson, Robinson, and Carter all qualify. It’s no surprise for any of them, of course. Anderson is an elite physical talent with a similarly elite motor. Robinson is a special running back with rare creative instincts and control. And Carter is a game-wrecker at defensive tackle with his burst, lateral agility, and power capacity. Even though it isn’t surprising, it’s valuable to see where these kinds of prospects generally settle. It helps provide context for the scale as a whole.) (5-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-may-27/

Comparing top college prospects to young NFL stars (Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (Jeffery Simmons, Titans):  Carter is stupidly strong and flexible at his size. He shouldn't be able to squeeze through gaps, take a chip, swim around a blocker and hit the accelerators to sack the quarterback as effortlessly as he does. That was the story with Simmons when he entered the league in 2019 out of Mississippi State, too. Tall, thick, powerful but deceptively elastic and explosive. After recovering from a pre-draft injury, Simmons has emerged as one of the game's best, disruptive-on-every-down interior defensive lineman who can win up and down the front. At 6-4 and 300 pounds, Carter can be inserted to any "technique" along Georgia's line and wreak unadulterated havoc.) (5-23-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/comparing-top-2023-draft-prospects-to-young-nfl-stars-ohio-state-qb-c-j-stroud-reminiscent-of-joe-burrow/

2023 NFL Draft: Defensive prospects to watch (Jalen Carter:  Carter stood out along a defensive line that featured three future first-round picks. He goes from a youngster working for a role in the defense to one of the elder statesmen on that side of the ball.) (5-17-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-will-anderson-jalen-carter-among-defensive-prospects-to-watch-in-college-football-season/

2023 NFL Draft Watch List: Defense (Jalen Carter, Georgia:  The current front-runner for DT1 in the 2023 class, Carter was the most impactful pass-rusher on Georgia's vaunted defense last season. He earned a 90.0 pass-rushing grade and racked up 34 pressures on 264 rushes. At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, he can operate anywhere between the tackles.) (5-9-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-watch-list-defense

2023 NFL draft prospects to watch: 10 quarterbacks, 10 non-QBs we like early on (DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  One day we’ll look back at the NFL talent the 2020-2022 Bulldogs produced and perhaps compare it to the early-millennium Miami Hurricanes of legend. Really, that’s how deep they’ve been the past few years, and Carter might be the best defensive prospect among them. He’s a scheme-wrecker from multiple spots and has top-10 potential.  In fact, we’ll go so far as to say that right now he might be a better NFL prospect than 2022 first-rounders Travon Walker, Jordan Davis and Devonte Wyatt — so long as Carter proves he can thrive without that type of seasoned talent surrounding him.) (5-3-22):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-10-quarterbacks-10-non-q-bs-we-like-early-on-181039990.html

PFN’s Top 100 College Football Players of 2022 (5. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  It may have been said time and time again, but size is uncoachable. When you have the size and immense talent Jalen Carter has, you transcend that expression and your position itself. Carter is a two-gapping defensive tackle with the pass-rushing skills of a dominant edge defender.  At 6’3″ and 310 pounds, Carter is a mammoth of a man who is unstoppable by just one blocker. There are multiple occasions from the 2021 season that the rising junior jumped the gap prior to the snap and met the QB or RB in the backfield. His size can’t be coached, nor can that kind of instinctual play. The best part about Carter is that he backs all that up with an improving game in all facets. He’s an ascending, already-elite talent.) (4-22-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-100-college-football-players-2022/

Posted by LionsFan at 12:08 PM

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