In his rookie season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Carter showcased why immense expectations surrounded him as he entered the NFL. A promising talent drafted with high hopes, Carter didn't disappoint, etching an impressive debut season that left an indelible mark on the league.
Impressive Rookie Campaign
Jalen Carter accrued 33 tackles, six sacks, nine quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles over 16 games. Among rookie defensive tackles, Carter’s performance was exceptional. He ranked second in sacks and tied for second in quarterback hits, while also tying for first in tackles for loss with eight. His impact was felt consistently on the field, with notable highlights including a fumble returned for a touchdown.
Carter’s adaptability was also put to the test early on, as Vic Fangio experimented with him in various roles during training camp. "It's good. It's fun. I actually haven't been on the edge that much, but I always tell them if you need me anywhere, we got a package for it when I'm on the edge, and we'll see what happens," Carter said.
Close to Glory
Carter came close to clinching the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year title, which was ultimately awarded to Will Anderson Jr. Despite falling short of this accolade, Carter’s rookie season was a testament to his potential and determination. "I keep my goals private, man, because I didn't get my defensive player of the year. I just want to be the best. I want to connect with my team. The main goal is to win the Super Bowl," Carter shared, reflecting his team-oriented mindset.
Early Signs of Greatness
The rookie sensation nearly registered a sack on his very first NFL snap during the 2023 preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, foreshadowing the high level of performance he would bring to the Eagles' defensive line. With the departure of veteran defensive line leader Fletcher Cox, Carter stepped into a significant role, a transition that evoked memories of his collegiate days at Georgia. "I'm looking forward to it a lot. It reminds me when I was at Georgia. I was behind JD [Jordan Davis], Travon Walker, all of them good guys. And when them guys went into the draft, it was me and my class coming up, and we had to take that step and take a big role in trying to win another national championship," Carter reminisced.
Adjusting to the NFL
The transition from college to professional football is often daunting, but Carter embraced it with vigor. "I look at it as the same. It's just the league. It's going to be way better competition," he observed, recognizing the elevated level of play in the NFL. This adaptability was crucial as he navigated his first season, which included a considerable break from football. "I was ready to play for a long time. That was the longest break I had from football since the start of my freshman year in college. So just getting back to it, I was ready, and I just made a play," Carter recounted.
Future Aspirations
As Carter looks ahead, his ambitions remain clear: to help lead the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl glory. While individual accolades like the Defensive Rookie of the Year title eluded him, Carter's focus remains unwavering on team success. His remarkable rookie season is only the beginning, a prelude to what promises to be an illustrious career in the NFL. With his first season under his belt, the future shines brightly for Jalen Carter, whose blend of talent, determination, and adaptability positions him as a cornerstone of the Eagles' defense for years to come.