Clemson Tigers Defensive Star Makes It to the Third Round of Recent NFL Mock Draft
A defender from the Clemson Tigers finds himself in the third round of a recent NFL mock draft.
Kenneth Teape / Clemson Tigers linebacker Barrett Carter (0) faces off against the Texas Longhorns during the first round of the CFP National Playoff at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Clemson Tigers linebacker Barrett Carter (0) faces off against the Texas Longhorns during the first round of the CFP National Playoff at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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The Clemson Tigers are heading into the 2025 season with high expectations, bringing back an abundance of talent on both offense and defense.
Despite the allure of the transfer portal or the chance to turn pro, Dabo Swinney and his staff have done a remarkable job of keeping talent year after year.
However, not every player stays, as some either run out of eligibility or are ready to advance to the next level.
One key player Clemson will need to replace on defense next season is standout linebacker Barrett Carter.
With 52 games under his belt at the college level, the versatile defender will bring significant experience to an NFL defense. For the past three seasons, he has been a starter for the Tigers, consistently filling the stat sheet.
Recording at least 62 total tackles and double-digit tackles for loss in each of the past three years, Barrett excels at playing sideline-to-sideline and chasing down ball carriers with remarkable athleticism.
His high football IQ also helps him overcome any challenges posed by his size.
Carter is also strong as a pass rusher, registering at least 3.5 sacks in each of the last three seasons. Additionally, he has been a playmaker, recording three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles over the course of his Clemson career.
He is effective in pass coverage as well, with 21 passes defended.
Carter is one of the top linebacker prospects in this year’s draft class. In a recent mock draft from Pro Football Network, he narrowly makes the cut as a Day 2 pick.
With the 100th overall pick in the third round, Carter is selected by the Los Angeles Rams in this mock.
The Rams represent an excellent fit for the Clemson standout, as they have excelled at drafting and developing talent in recent years, particularly on defense.
Linebacker appears to be a position of need for Los Angeles heading into the offseason, as they have a strong group of edge rushers but could use more three-down players at the second level of their defense.
Carter is one of three Clemson players featured in this mock draft, as tight end Jake Briningstool and running back Phil Mafah are also selected on Day 3.
