Eagles' Carter shows exciting glimpse into the future

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Eagles' Jalen Carter shows exciting glimpse into the future

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/12/23

Believed to be the steal of the 2023 NFL Draft, Philadelphia Eagles rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter quickly showed why the eight teams that passed on him might regret it during Saturday's preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens.

Carter made an immediate impact, blowing up a play on his first snap as a pro. The ninth-overall pick burst through the line, shoving Ravens guard Ben Cleveland away like a fly before chasing down quarterback Josh Johnson, who barely got rid of the football before being sacked.

Jalen Carter's first snap with the @Eagles

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— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2023

After only one play, Carter displayed all the skills that made him the potential No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft until off-the-field issues caused him to fall.

Watching Carter's first NFL snap, his quickness and strength jump out, especially considering his 6-foot-3, 300-pound frame. While it's only one play, Carter looks well on his way to becoming a terror on the Eagles' defensive line.

Carter has already turned heads at training camp. Members of the Eagles O-line revealed they've started "gameplanning" for Carter. Meanwhile, veteran DT Fletcher Cox acknowledged that "you don't see" rookies play like Carter has.

The 22-year-old has also left an impression on team equipment, allegedly destroying a blocking sled during the Eagles' rookie minicamp earlier this summer.

With Carter in tow, the Eagles could have another banner year on defense, only a season removed from leading the NFL in sacks (70). Expected to slide next to Cox in the second starting tackle spot, Carter adds to an already formidable line that features defensive ends Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham.

Last season, Cox, Graham and Sweat combined for 29 sacks. With Carter now wreaking havoc in the middle, it could be a very long season for opposing quarterbacks in 2023.

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