Jalen Carter Eagles: Impact And Future

Nick Leason

-Nov 17, 2025

Key Takeaways

Jalen Carter was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 9th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
He is a defensive tackle known for his athleticism, strength, and playmaking ability.
Carter's arrival bolsters the Eagles' defensive line, aiming to improve their pass rush and run defense.
Despite off-field concerns, his talent is undeniable, and he has the potential to be a cornerstone player.
Early performance suggests he can make significant contributions to the Eagles' defensive success.

Introduction

The Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move in the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting defensive tackle Jalen Carter with the 9th overall pick. This acquisition was met with both excitement and scrutiny due to Carter's immense talent and some lingering questions about his character. This article explores Jalen Carter's fit with the Eagles, his potential impact on the team, and what his future might hold in Philadelphia.

What is Jalen Carter and Why Did the Eagles Draft Him?

Jalen Carter is an American football player who plays the defensive tackle position. Standing at 6'3" and weighing around 314 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size, speed, strength, and agility for his position. During his collegiate career at the University of Georgia, Carter was a dominant force, instrumental in the Bulldogs' back-to-back national championships.

He earned numerous accolades, including First-Team All-American honors, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses through the interior. His skills include elite pass-rushing moves, the strength to command double teams, and the quickness to penetrate gaps against the run.

The Eagles drafted Carter primarily because his talent was too significant to pass up. General Manager Howie Roseman and Head Coach Nick Sirianni identified a need to improve their defensive front, particularly in generating interior pressure and stopping the run. Carter's potential to become an All-Pro caliber player aligned with the Eagles' philosophy of building through the trenches.

Furthermore, the Eagles have a history of taking chances on talented players with character concerns, believing they can provide the right environment for success. They saw Carter as a player who could fill a crucial role and, with the right coaching and team culture, thrive.

How Jalen Carter Fits into the Eagles' Defensive Scheme

The Philadelphia Eagles typically employ a versatile defensive scheme that relies on a strong pass rush and stout run defense. Jalen Carter's addition directly addresses both these areas.

Pass Rush Enhancement:

Carter's ability to generate pressure from the interior is a game-changer. While the Eagles have strong edge rushers like Haason Reddick, interior pressure collapses the pocket, forcing quarterbacks out of their comfort zone and leading to quicker decisions or sacks. Carter's quick first step and powerful bull rush can overwhelm interior offensive linemen, creating opportunities for himself and freeing up opportunities for his teammates. — Michigan Liquor Price Book: A Comprehensive Guide

Run Defense Improvement:

Stopping the run has been an emphasis for the Eagles. Carter's size, strength, and low center of gravity make him a formidable force against the run. He can command double teams, freeing up linebackers to make plays, or he can shed blocks himself to make tackles for loss. His presence in the middle should significantly improve the Eagles' ability to shut down opposing rushing attacks.

Scheme Versatility:

While primarily a defensive tackle, Carter has the athleticism to play multiple techniques along the defensive line. This versatility allows defensive coordinator Sean Desai to move him around, creating mismatches and unpredictable looks for opposing offenses. He can play the nose tackle position, the three-technique, or even align in wider techniques in certain packages.

Jalen Carter's Potential Impact on the Eagles

Jalen Carter's potential impact on the Philadelphia Eagles is substantial. If he lives up to his considerable talent, he could become one of the most disruptive defensive players in the league.

Immediate Contributions:

Even with the learning curve of the NFL, Carter is expected to contribute immediately. His strength and pass-rushing prowess should make him a key part of the defensive line rotation from day one. He has the capability to make impactful plays in nearly every game, whether it's a sack, a tackle for loss, or forcing a hurried throw. — Michigan Football: Scores, Updates, And News

Long-Term Cornerstone:

In the long term, Carter has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Eagles' defense for years to come. His ability to anchor the defensive line, disrupt offenses, and elevate the play of those around him could solidify the Eagles as a dominant defensive unit. A strong interior presence like Carter can be the missing piece that takes a good defense to a great one.

Leadership and Culture:

While questions about his character exist, his performance on the field can set a tone. If he dedicates himself to his craft and demonstrates accountability, he can become a positive influence within the locker room. The Eagles' veteran leadership and established culture will be crucial in guiding Carter and ensuring he grows both as a player and a person.

Early Performance and Expectations

Carter's rookie season performance has been closely watched. Despite the pressures of being a high draft pick and the scrutiny surrounding his past, he has shown flashes of brilliance. His athleticism and ability to make plays have been evident in preseason and early regular-season games.

He has demonstrated his strength in pushing offensive linemen back and his agility in making quick tackles. The coaching staff has expressed optimism about his development and integration into the team. While there have been some growing pains, typical for any rookie, his raw talent often shines through.

Expectations are high, but tempered with realism. The Eagles are focused on developing him within their system. His snap count might be managed initially, but as he proves his reliability and understanding of the playbook, his role is expected to expand. The coaching staff's ability to harness his talent and instill discipline will be key to unlocking his full potential.

Addressing Off-Field Concerns

It's impossible to discuss Jalen Carter without acknowledging the off-field concerns that shadowed him leading up to the draft. These included legal issues related to a fatal car crash at Georgia, where he was charged with misdemeanor reckless driving and racing. There were also reports of him skipping out on a contractual obligation.

The Eagles conducted extensive due diligence, interviewing Carter multiple times and speaking with people close to him. They emphasized their commitment to providing him with support and resources to help him succeed. The organization has a track record of giving players second chances, often citing their strong support system and coaching staff as beneficial.

However, these concerns remain a factor. Carter's maturity, decision-making, and commitment to a professional lifestyle will be under constant observation. The Eagles are taking a calculated risk, betting on his talent while also investing in his personal development.

Comparison to Other Eagles Defensive Linemen

Comparing Jalen Carter to his teammates on the Eagles' defensive line provides context for his potential role and impact. — LaGrange, GA: Find Zip Codes & More

Fletcher Cox:

Fletcher Cox, a long-time veteran and arguably the greatest defensive tackle in Eagles history, provides a mentorship opportunity. Cox, while aging, still possesses significant football intelligence and ability. Carter can learn invaluable lessons about technique, consistency, and professionalism from Cox. Cox's presence also allows Carter to ease into a full-time role.

Jordan Mailata:

While Mailata is an offensive lineman, the sheer physical presence and athletic ability Carter displays are comparable to the best athletes in the league, regardless of position. Both players are imposing physical specimens who have overcome significant challenges to reach the NFL.

Haason Reddick & Josh Sweat:

Carter's role on the interior complements the Eagles' potent edge rushers like Reddick and Sweat. Their ability to pressure from the outside forces quarterbacks to step up into the pocket, where Carter can then make plays. This synergy between interior and exterior pressure is what defensive coordinators dream of.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Carter faces several potential challenges in his NFL career:

Adapting to the NFL Pace: The speed of the game and the size/skill of NFL offensive linemen are a significant step up from college.
- Solution: Focused practice, film study, and relying on veteran guidance will be crucial.
Maintaining Discipline: Off-field issues and on-field penalties can derail a career.
- Solution: Strong mentorship from coaches and veteran players, coupled with personal accountability, is essential.
Handling Pressure and Scrutiny: As a top-10 pick with a controversial past, Carter will be under a microscope.
- Solution: Focusing on his performance, blocking out distractions, and letting his play speak for itself.
Staying Healthy: Defensive tackles endure significant physical punishment.
- Solution: Proper conditioning, nutrition, and recovery protocols are vital.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What number does Jalen Carter wear for the Eagles?

Jalen Carter wears the number 98 for the Philadelphia Eagles.

2. Is Jalen Carter considered a defensive end or defensive tackle?

Carter is primarily a defensive tackle. His size and skillset are best suited for playing inside on the defensive line.

3. What were the main concerns about Jalen Carter before the draft?

The primary concerns were related to off-field legal issues stemming from a fatal car crash at Georgia and questions about his maturity and commitment.

4. How has Jalen Carter performed in his rookie season?

Early indications show Jalen Carter has demonstrated significant talent and made impactful plays, though like any rookie, he is still adapting to the NFL game.

5. Did the Eagles trade up to get Jalen Carter?

No, the Eagles did not trade up. They selected Jalen Carter with their original 9th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

6. What is Jalen Carter's college background?

Jalen Carter played college football at the University of Georgia, where he was a key player in their back-to-back national championship wins.

Conclusion

Jalen Carter represents a high-reward, high-risk prospect for the Philadelphia Eagles. His undeniable talent and potential to become an elite defensive tackle make him an exciting addition to the team's defensive front. The Eagles have placed their faith in his ability to perform on the field and their organizational structure to help him navigate off-field challenges.

The success of Carter in Philadelphia will depend on his dedication, the support he receives, and his ability to overcome adversity. If he realizes his potential, he could be a transformative player for the Eagles for years to come, anchoring their defense and contributing to their pursuit of championships. Eagles fans will be watching closely as his career unfolds.

Ready to explore more about the Eagles' roster and strategy? Dive deeper into team news and player analysis on our sports section.

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 10:00 UTC