Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals

The 2026 NFL draft has the Cincinnati Bengals focused on defensive upgrades, and one name stands out in discussions: Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter. From a three-star recruit to a potential first-round pick, Carter’s versatile skill set aligns perfectly with the Bengals’ top defensive needs. As draft season heats up, analysts and fans alike see him as a natural fit for Cincinnati’s scheme, sparking buzz about how he could boost their competitive defense. Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals breaks down why this young linebacker is a top target, his path to the draft, and his potential impact on the franchise.

Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals starts with his standout Clemson career. After a redshirt freshman year, Carter emerged as a sophomore with 65 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. By his junior season, he became a do-it-all playmaker: 102 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 3 forced fumbles. His versatility—excelling in run defense, coverage, and edge blitzing—set him apart, as did his football IQ, which Clemson coach Dabo Swinney praised as “anticipatory.” Big-game performances, like 14 tackles and 2 sacks against South Carolina, solidified his prospect status. “I aim to help wherever needed,” Carter said, and that reliability is exactly what the Bengals seek in a linebacker.

Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals delves into the Cincinnati Bengals’ specific defensive gaps that make Carter a prime fit. Entering 2026, the Bengals’ biggest need is middle linebacker: their veteran starter (near free agency) struggled in 2025, and backups lack speed. They also ranked 22nd in run defense and allowed 8 tight end touchdowns—two areas where Carter shines. His strength stops runs, and his agility shuts down tight ends. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah (who ranks Carter 15th overall) explained: “Cincinnati’s defense needs versatile linebackers, and Carter excels at run defense, coverage, and blitzing—he’d fix their run issues and boost the secondary.” Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo also noted “linebacker versatility” as an off-season priority.

Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals examines how expert projections fuel buzz around Carter and the Cincinnati Bengals. Major outlets (ESPN, NFL.com, The Athletic) have the Bengals picking a linebacker with their first-round pick (18-25 range), and Carter is consistently their top target. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. mocks Carter to the Bengals at No. 21: “His size (6’2”, 235 lbs), speed (4.51 40), and IQ are too good—he’ll be a decade-long playmaker.” Scouts also highlight his leadership (two-time Clemson captain) and work ethic (extra film study, training). For the Cincinnati Bengals, who value character, this matters: GM Duke Tobin said, “We want hardworking leaders, and Barrett fits that mold.”

Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals explores fan excitement around the potential pick. On Reddit’s r/Bengals, a Carter fit post drew 1,500+ comments, with fans praising his ability to fix run defense and tight end coverage. “We’ve needed this for years,” one user wrote, sharing clips of Carter intercepting a tight end pass (captioned “Perfect for stopping the Ravens’ Andrews”). Local radio (700 WLW) hosted Carter segments, with callers debating his first-round value. “Fans see him as an immediate contributor to a Super Bowl push,” a host said. For the Cincinnati Bengals, this support signals their draft strategy aligns with fan expectations.

Barrett Carter's Rise Noted in Draft Talks for the Cincinnati Bengals wraps up with Carter’s potential impact on the Cincinnati Bengals’ future. If drafted, he’d start immediately at middle linebacker, pairing with edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to strengthen the front. His skills let Anarumo blitz more aggressively (no coverage risk). Long-term, Carter could become a defensive cornerstone, joining Hendrickson and Jessie Bates III as leaders. “He’s an investment, not a quick fix,” said former Bengals linebacker Takeo Spikes. Carter also acknowledged interest: “Cincinnati’s a great organization—I’d love to help them win.” As the draft nears, all eyes are on the Bengals and Carter. A pick here could start a long, successful partnership—making Carter’s rise more than a draft story, but a potential game-changer for the Cincinnati Bengals.