Former Georgia football star, Jalen Carter has quickly established himself as a dominant force on the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive line. Now entering his third NFL season, Carter continues to earn recognition as one of the league’s top defensive tackles. On Tuesday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler released his annual rankings of interior linemen, gathering input from coaches, scouts, and executives—and Carter secured his place among the league’s best.
Eagles fans have reason to celebrate as Jalen Carter secured the third spot on Jeremy Fowler’s list, finishing behind only Dexter Lawrence II and Chris Jones.
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) and defensive tackle Jordan Davis (90) and cornerback Kelee Ringo (22) walk off the field together after a victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) and defensive tackle Jordan Davis (90) and cornerback Kelee Ringo (22) walk off the field together after a victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
“A year ago, evaluators around the league projected big things for Carter, who had already shown a knack for beating top-shelf offensive guards at the line. He validated that faith with All-Pro second-team honors, a Pro Bowl nod and a Super Bowl ring,” Fowler wrote in his article.
“Young player with elite tools, elite instincts and game-changing play ability. Think the best is yet to come from him if he can keep his life in order. Has Hall of Fame-type ability and instincts,” added another veteran NFL coach.
Jalen Carter with the Eagles
eagles dt jalen carter
Jan 12, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) against the Green Bay Packers in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Carter turned in a strong 2024 campaign, finishing with 42 tackles and 4.5 sacks. Though his basic stats may not be eye-popping, analytics consistently rank him among the most effective defensive tackles in the league.
The 24-year-old entered the NFL in 2023 and quickly established himself as a key piece of Philadelphia’s defense. As a rookie, he recorded 33 total tackles, six sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
The Eagles defensive tackle maintained his strong performance last season, finishing with 42 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Still, the defining moment of his young career was playing a key role in helping Philadelphia capture a Super Bowl title.
Dec 29, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis (90) and defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) celebrate a fumble recover against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis (90) and defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) celebrate a fumble recover against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Already entering just his third NFL season, the young defensive tackle, Jalen Carter continues to stand out as one of the league’s most disruptive interior defenders. His production, highlighted by 42 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles last year, has kept him firmly in the conversation among the NFL’s elite at his position.
Eagles fans would no doubt be excited if Carter followed a similar trajectory to franchise great Fletcher Cox. Right now, his ceiling seems incredibly high.