Chris Carter Scouting Report

Many collegiate players have a tough time fitting into a 3-4 defense in the NFL, but Chris Carter out of Fresno State should be able to make that transition much easier than many players who spent their collegiate years in a 4-3 scheme. Carter started out as a linebacker and did quite well. As a freshman in 2007 his playing time was limited, but the 6-2, 240 pound Fontana, California native showed flashes of potential. The following year Carter earned All-WAC accolades despite moving from linebacker to defensive end in the middle of the season. Even while transitioning between positions, Carter tallied 88 tackles, 7.0 tackles-for-loss and 4.0 sacks.

In 2009 Carter had to deal with injuries, but he settled into the defensive end position and tallied 10.5 tackles-for-loss and 4.0 sacks. For his efforts he was a first-team All-WAC honoree. During his senior season Carter took it to the next level and won the conference's Defensive Player of the Year award. On the year tallied an impressive 16.5 tackles-for-loss and 11.0 sacks.

Carter will likely have to play as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense at the next level. He has the instincts and enough speed to perform well in that role. However, he has been adding weight and could be a solid pass rushing end in certain situations.