2025 NFL Draft prospect labeled a 'Hidden Gem' could be a fit for the Kansas City Chiefs at a future position of need
When teams get to the late rounds of the NFL draft, they tend to look for players who they believe were underutilized, or possess high-level physical traits. Both of those factors seems to be the case for Michigan State running back Nate Carter. During his Pro Day last month, Carter wowed scouts with his workouts. […]
When teams get to the late rounds of the NFL draft, they tend to look for players who they believe were underutilized, or possess high-level physical traits.
Both of those factors seems to be the case for Michigan State running back Nate Carter. During his Pro Day last month, Carter wowed scouts with his workouts. While identifying players who have helped their draft stock with strong Pro Day performances, our draft guru Ian Valentino identified Carter as a potential late-round "hidden gem."
"At just 5-foot-9 and 195 pounds, with a total of 2,280 yards, 12 touchdowns, and an average of 4.6 yards per carry over four seasons at Connecticut and Michigan State, Carter's stats may not seem impressive. His smaller frame and lack of standout performance on two struggling offenses could raise concerns. However, his pro day indicates that he was perhaps hindered by circumstances beyond his control. Despite never surpassing 800 rushing yards in a single season, Carter shone during his time in East Lansing. His 4.37 40-yard dash, 40-inch vertical leap, and 10-foot-8-inch broad jump would have ranked among the top three for running backs at the Combine. Additionally, he completed 23 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press. These explosive numbers suggest that he is worth taking a chance on in the later rounds. His potential to excel in special teams and as a third-down receiving option could lead to dynamic plays for any offense." – Ian Valentino
How Carter could fit with the Chiefs
Michigan State's weak offense can be attributed a large portion of blame for Carter's lack of production. His speed and athleticism alone are enough to warrant him being on an NFL roster. Even being on the smaller side, Carter's 23 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press show that he has the strength to take on defenders.
With Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell both on one-year contracts, Kansas City needs a developmental running back. Even if Carter can't reach starter potential, he has the qualities of a good third-down RB who can catch the ball out of the backfield and rip off big runs. Carter is worth the Chiefs taking a flyer on late in the 2025 NFL Draft, especially given that they have three seventh-round picks.
