Jalen Carter NFL Draft
Georgia Bulldogs

Jalen Carter

  • DL Georgia
  • Junior
  • #2
  • 6'3"
  • 310lbs
  • Prospect
  • Southeastern

Prospect Summary

Jalen Carter 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

  • Second-team All-SEC (coaches)
  • 33 QB pressures (second on team)

System: 

  • Scheme tendencies: 3-4 odd front 
  • 2022 projected role: Starting 2i or 3-tech

Pros: Jalen Carter checks the physical and athletic boxes. Carter’s first step stresses interior offensive linemen’s reactive quickness. He has strong short-area quickness and burst to close on the ball carrier. He is an alignment-fluid defender—Georgia plays him in multiple spots: 1-tech, 2i, 3-tech, and 5-tech. Carter has a solid repertoire of hand counters. He possesses the power to overwhelm opponents and dirty the quarterback’s lap. His fluid and flexible lower body allow him to move well laterally and cover ample ground. He has good body control, plants, and redirects flowing to the football. Carter’s motor runs hot. He consistently works through blocks and chases plays from the backside.   

Cons: Despite playing multiple alignments, Jalen Carter is best as a single-gap penetrator. Inconsistency against double teams raises concerns about reducing his alignment too far inside. His contact balance needs improvement. He is susceptible to being knocked off his rush path. Although he has a solid repertoire of hand counters, Carter does not activate his hands enough. He attempts to deconstruct blocks with quickness and drives his shoulder between gaps. Hand/punch placement must improve to not allow easy access to his chest. Carter plays with inconsistent pad level and is seen popping up out of his stance, surrendering leverage quickly. He’s played fewer than 140 snaps against the run, raising concerns about holding up in a full-time role. `

Jalen Carter NFL Draft Scouting Report by Damian Parson