Jets take dynamic edge-rusher in latest mock draft

Carter made 56 tackles and 6.5 sacks as a freshman in 2023 and spent his first two years playing linebacker for the Nittany Lions. The team moved him to defensive end last season, when he had 68 tackles with a team-high 12 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss. 

He was named a unanimous All-American in 2024 and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Rang acknowledges that Carter is likely to impress in workouts and could ultimately wind up as the No. 1 overall pick.

Carter is currently the draft’s top-rated edge defender and second-best prospect overall, according to Pro Football Focus. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah has him going first overall to the Titans and called Carter “the best player in the draft” during a recent appearance on the "The Pat McAfee Show."

High praise indeed, but Jeremiah is not alone in his opinion of Carter. Kyle Crabbs of The 33rd Team believes Carter has “electric traits as a pass rusher and a different gear on the edge,” and calls him a “smooth, effortless mover with explosive qualities and violent finishing capabilities.”

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. is less effusive but notes Carter “seems to always be around the ball.” He also has him going fourth overall to the New England Patriots, so it remains to be seen if Carter will actually fall to the Jets.

But as Rang noted, the Jets are “a franchise needing some good fortune after back-to-back seasons of massive disappointment.” Carter would mark a step in the right direction as a player new head coach Aaron Glenn would surely like to have.