More Jalen Carter Appreciation

Posted: May 10th, 2023 | Author: Tommy Lawlor 

We’ve talked a lot about Jalen Carter this spring, but he’s such a compelling subject that we’re going to keep talking about him. I hope that’s acceptable. If not, I’ve got some JJ Arcega-Whiteside All-22 pieces I can begin posting.

This was interesting to see.

We’ll find out if Jason Kelce is a good judge of people, but it is encouraging that he’s saying the right things about Carter so far. I can’t stress enough the value that Fletcher Cox, Brandon Graham, Lane Johnson and Kelce have in creating the right environment for Carter. They have experience and strong personalities. If Carter is willing to listen, he’ll be in good shape. If he isn’t, he’s going to wash out pretty quick.

Now let’s talk about Carter the player. He’s powerful and can physically overwhelm some blockers.

We probably don’t talk enough about him as a smart, skilled DT. Remember that he didn’t play in a 1-gap attacking system. Carter had different responsibilities based on the scheme on a particular play. Watch his 2-gap ability in this clip.

Here he shows a variety of moves/techniques.

Carter is the rare DT who has the potential to be a run-stuffer and an impact pass rusher.

Numbers are impressive, but then you see something like this.

Wow.

Just wow.

That is one special dude. If he pans out, the Eagles could have an absolute monster in the middle of their defense for a long time. I don’t want to over-hype Carter, but he’s not just your typical DT1 out of the draft. He can dominate vs the run and pass. That’s rare. Beyond that, DT is becoming even more of a critical position in today’s NFL. Coaches want to play with a light box. You can do that with DTs who can 2-gap. Offensive coaches can burn that by throwing the ball. Put Carter on the field and the offense doesn’t have an easy option.

The more I think about Carter as an Eagle, the happier I get. He might not pan out, but if he does, the Eagles could be building a dominant defense.

*****

The schedule comes out on Thursday. Here is your early look at what we know.

Mixed feelings on a Christmas game, but at least it is late enough that we can enjoy gift-giving in the morning. Fingers crossed on Santa getting me a case of PBR and large bag of Funyuns. Then I can enjoy the game in style!

http://igglesblitz.com/2023/05/jalen-carter-appreciation/

If Kelce is good with him then I’m good with him! 

Carter is ridiculous.  If he can do this at the next level, then Fletch II comparisons are fair and maybe more if he starts knocking QB's out of the game too.