With the NFL Draft quickly approaching, several players made the most of their NFL Combine performances to help them stand out. The Las Vegas Raiders need offensive line prospects, and Ja’Tyre Carter is one of those future NFL rookies. While Trevor Penning and Evan Neal will rightfully command the spotlight as first-round darlings, the Raiders could look at someone like Carter in the late rounds to help replenish their O-line’s depth.
Another O-line prospect that the Raiders should keep an eye on…
Carter has a solid build while standing at six-foot-three and weighing 311 pounds as measured at the combine. During his four years of college football, he allowed zero sacks. He also racked up a number of awards. Carter earned second-team All-Conference honors as well as SWAC Offensive Lineman of the Year. He’s also done well on the ground, averaging 203 yards per game. That alone shows major athleticism, as most linemen rarely play out of position.
What are Carter’s strengths and weaknesses?
When you look at his towering frame, he excels at either guard position, taking on his blocks to create gaps for his running back to run. Or he’s taking on that same block in order to keep a clean pocket for his quarterback to make a play. He also makes great use of his hands; he’s hard to push over due to his size. His feet are another notable trait, along with his football IQ. Did I mention this nearly 300-pounder can also run the ball fairly well?
If you had one weakness to point out, it would be the simple lack of true tape to critique his flaws, being in a small conference like the SWAC where games aren’t televised nationally. You simply have to watch and see for yourself. He’ll likely have trouble with elite, speedy pass rushers inside. Regardless, he should be seen as a developmental guard prospect who could take snaps on the interior, honing his versatility at the pro level with time and proper guidance.
Look at Southern OL Ja’Tyre Carter (@CarterJaTyre) showing the versatility necessary to play at the next level. Yesterday at LG, been moving around all week. @DraftHBCU 🈠pic.twitter.com/mBzEGw9k0F
— Maliik Obee (@NFLMaliik) February 4, 2022
Draft Projection
When you look at his size alone, I could see him falling into the lap of a team during Day 2 or 3. HBCU talents are always overlooked, but they turn heads once they hit the field. I have a feeling it will be the same story with Carter, which would benefit the Raiders.
As far as other teams who could use his skills, the Cincinnati Bengals, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Arizona Cardinals come to mind. As far as his ceiling goes, think Kelechi Osemele with his floor being T.J. Lang.
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*Top Photo: Travis Spradling/The Advocate