Jalen Carter checks off rookie goal in just two seasons with Philadelphia Eagles
It was an emotional moment for Jalen Carter when the Philadelphia Eagles traded up to select him at No. 9 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. With tears in his eyes, Carter looked at the camera and said, "Aye, I told them they got the best player in the draft and, you know, day one […]
It was an emotional moment for Jalen Carter when the Philadelphia Eagles traded up to select him at No. 9 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.
With tears in his eyes, Carter looked at the camera and said, "Aye, I told them they got the best player in the draft and, you know, day one when I get there it's time to work and we finna win the Super Bowl."
Carter was a man of his word.
The Georgia Bulldogs product quickly made an impact on the defensive line with his explosive power, quickness off the snap, and ability to disrupt plays from the interior. He earned early praise from coaches and teammates for his maturity on the field and finished his rookie season appearing in all 16 games, recording 33 total tackles (20 solo), six sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. His efforts earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team, and he finished second in the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting
Building on his initial success, Carter's 2024 season saw him start all 16 games, amassing 42 total tackles (25 solo), 4.5 sacks, six pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. His performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and ultimately helped the Eagles reach Super Bowl LIX.
Even though Carter didn’t show up on the stat sheet during the Eagles’ historic 40-22 Super Bowl win over the Kansas City Chiefs, his impact was undeniable. He constantly drew double teams, opening lanes for his teammates to get after the quarterback and helped shut down the Chiefs' hopes for a three-peat.
Through two seasons, Carter has established himself as a cornerstone of the Eagles' defense, with a career total of 75 tackles (44 solo), 10.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
And heading into Year 3, Carter is still just getting started.
