So far, Jalen Carter hasn’t been credited with a single start for the Philadelphia Eagles.
That’s merely a technicality in what’s been a sterling debut season for the 2023 NFL Draft’s No. 9 overall pick.
The current NFC champions have strengthened their exceptional defensive line by adding Carter. He has shown potential as a disruptive force in the front line and is an early contender for the Associated Press NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. In addition, he has demonstrated a keen willingness and aptitude in learning the game.
Eagles defensive coordinator Sean Desai was full of praise for Carter on Tuesday. Speaking via team transcript, he said, “It’s fascinating to see his deep love for football. He’s akin to a sponge, constantly seeking feedback and enduring rigorous coaching. He’s also open to learning from his peers, accepting any guidance he can get. Many of his teammates are actively teaching him.”
Carter’s play indicates that he is a fast learner.
The Eagles’ earth-mover has racked up 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, four QB hits and 12 tackles through five games and 164 defensive snaps (just 51% of the Eagles’ defensive plays). In Sunday’s win over the Los Angeles Rams, Carter had a monster game of four tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, a pair of QB hits and four QB pressures. He’s had at least four pressures in each game, per Next Gen Stats. All told, Carter has racked up 25 pressures — nine more than any other rookie defensive tackle in their first five games during the Next Gen era.
“Clearly, we can see his potential as a player, and how he continues to grow and improve in his role every week,” said Desai. “He consistently works on bettering various aspects of his game.”
He’ll look to keep improving on his statistics in an opportune Week 6 matchup as the undefeated Eagles (5-0) face the host Jets (2-3), who’ve been besieged by injuries on the offensive line and lost standout Alijah Vera-Tucker for the season this week.
Carter has been a contentious figure leading into this year’s draft. Early in the pre-draft process, he was viewed as a potential top-five pick, but many expected him to drop out of the top 10 due to issues off the field. These issues originated from his arrest and subsequent release on March 1 on misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing, following an investigation into a deadly car crash on Jan. 15. Carter later pled no contest and received a sentence of 12 months probation, a $1,000 fine, 80 hours of community service, and the requirement to complete a state-approved defensive driving course.
Discussion about Carter’s rookie campaign has primarily been about his on-field performance, which has received glowing reviews since the very first week.
“Desai said, ‘He’s like a sponge, always wanting to improve, stay a vital part of this defense and make an impact. He’s truly taking ownership.'”
Despite his age and experience, the 21-year-old is having a significant impact. His outstanding performance is infusing energy into the rest of the Eagles’ star-studded defensive line-up.
Desai said, “Whenever someone makes a play, it acts as an energy amplifier due to the ripple effect. It injects a substantial amount of energy into the team, and he’s a player who has consistently been making plays.”
