Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals

As the NFL Draft approaches, Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter has emerged as one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in this year’s class—and among the teams consistently linked to him in draft projections is the Cincinnati Bengals. Carter’s combination of versatility, athleticism, and football IQ has caught the eye of scouts across the league, but the Bengals’ specific defensive needs make them a particularly logical fit. With questions surrounding the depth and long-term future of their linebacker corps, Cincinnati has been identified by analysts as a team that could target Carter in the early to mid-rounds. Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals explores the factors driving these projections, how Carter’s skills align with the Bengals’ scheme, and why this pairing could address a key gap in the team’s defense.

Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals begins with Carter’s rising stock and draft range. After a standout junior season at Clemson, where he recorded 83 tackles, 7 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles, Carter has seen his draft stock climb steadily. Most NFL draft analysts project him to be selected between the late first and early third rounds, with his versatility as a “three-down linebacker” (capable of stopping the run, rushing the passer, and covering tight ends/slot receivers) driving his appeal. Draft outlets like ESPN and NFL.com have highlighted his ability to play multiple linebacker spots, a trait that’s increasingly valuable in modern NFL defenses. “Carter isn’t just a one-dimensional player—he can do everything you ask of a linebacker,” said a former NFL scout turned draft analyst. “That kind of versatility makes him a safe pick for teams looking to upgrade their defense, and it’s why so many projections have him linked to playoff contenders like the Bengals.” His performance at the NFL Combine—where he posted a 4.52-second 40-yard dash (top among linebackers) and a 36-inch vertical jump—only solidified his status as a top defensive prospect.

A key reason for the Bengals’ inclusion in Carter’s draft projections is Cincinnati’s linebacker needs. The Bengals’ current linebacker corps has been serviceable, with Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt leading the way, but depth and long-term stability are concerns. Wilson is entering the final year of his contract, and Pratt has struggled with consistency in pass coverage—two issues that Carter could help address. Additionally, the Bengals lack a true “edge-backer” who can shift between the line and linebacker, a role Carter excelled at at Clemson. In 2023, the Bengals ranked 22nd in the NFL in sacks by linebackers and 18th in pass coverage grade for the position (per Pro Football Focus), stats that highlight their need for an upgrade. “The Bengals have a great core on defense, but linebacker is a clear weak spot,” said a draft analyst for NFL Network. “Carter would immediately compete for playing time and could eventually replace Wilson or Pratt, giving them a long-term solution at the position. That’s why he’s such a natural fit for their draft board.”

Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals also includes scheme fit—how Carter’s skills align with the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense. The Bengals run a base 4-3 defense but frequently shift to nickel and dime packages, requiring linebackers to be adaptable. Carter’s ability to play middle linebacker in base sets, rush the passer from the edge in nickel, and cover slot receivers in dime aligns perfectly with this flexibility. At Clemson, he played in a similar defensive system, often tasked with adjusting his role based on the opponent’s formation—a skill that would translate seamlessly to Cincinnati. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has spoken publicly about wanting “linebackers who can think on their feet,” and Carter’s reputation for pre-snap adjustments (he often called out plays for Clemson’s defense) makes him an ideal fit. “Anarumo’s defense relies on linebackers to be extensions of the coaching staff on the field, and Carter has that leadership quality,” said a Bengals beat writer. “He’d be able to step in and understand the scheme quickly, which is crucial for a team looking to contend for a Super Bowl.” For the Cincinnati Bengals, this scheme compatibility reduces the risk of drafting Carter, as he wouldn’t require a lengthy adjustment period.

Another factor fueling the projections is the Bengals’ draft history and evaluation of Clemson players. Cincinnati has a track record of targeting prospects from Clemson, including defensive tackle DJ Reader (who played at Clemson before joining the Bengals via free agency) and cornerback Mike Hilton (a Clemson alum). The Bengals’ scouting department has also been spotted at multiple Clemson games this season, with reports indicating they spent extra time evaluating Carter. Additionally, the Bengals have shown a preference for drafting players with strong leadership traits—Carter was a team captain at Clemson—and a history of winning (he helped lead the Tigers to two ACC championships). “The Bengals value character and winning experience as much as talent, and Carter checks both boxes,” said a source close to the Bengals’ front office. “Their scouting staff has done their homework on him, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. That’s why he’s so high on their list of potential targets.” For the Cincinnati Bengals, drafting a player with a proven track record of success and leadership helps maintain the team’s winning culture.

A final reason for the projections is the potential impact on the Bengals’ playoff aspirations for the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals are in win-now mode with an elite offense led by Joe Burrow, but their defense has held them back in recent playoff runs. Adding a playmaker like Carter could elevate the defense from “good” to “elite,” giving them a better chance to compete with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. Carter’s ability to force turnovers (he had 5 takeaways at Clemson in 2023) and disrupt opposing offenses would provide a boost to a Bengals defense that ranked 15th in takeaways last season. “The Bengals are one or two defensive pieces away from being a Super Bowl favorite, and Carter could be that piece,” said a national NFL analyst. “He’d immediately make their defense more dynamic, and his presence would allow other players (like edge rusher Trey Hendrickson) to have more success by drawing less attention.” For the Cincinnati Bengals, drafting Carter isn’t just about addressing a need—it’s about taking the final step toward championship contention.

Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals wraps up with what the future could hold for both sides. If the Bengals do select Carter, he’d join a defense with talented veterans like Reader, Hendrickson, and safety Jessie Bates III, giving him the support to succeed early. For Carter, Cincinnati would provide an opportunity to play meaningful snaps immediately and compete for a Super Bowl in his rookie season—a rare scenario for a young player. Draft analysts caution that projections can shift in the final weeks, but the Bengals’ need for a versatile linebacker and Carter’s fit in their scheme make this pairing one of the most logical in this year’s draft. “At the end of the day, the NFL Draft is about finding players who fit your team’s needs and culture,” said the NFL Network analyst. “Carter fits the Bengals on both counts, and that’s why he’ll be at the top of their list when their pick comes up.” Barrett Carter's Draft Projections Include the Cincinnati Bengals ultimately shows that while draft day is full of surprises, some pairings are just too sensible to ignore—and Carter and the Bengals are one of them.