The 2025 NFL offseason is here and that means it’s time for mock drafts, draft profiles and everything that goes with them. So without further ado, here’s one of many Draft Profiles for the 2025 NFL draft.
Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
HT: 6’1
WT: 230 lbs
Accolades:
• First-team All-ACC (2024)
• Second-team All-ACC (2023)
Video:
Pros:
Unleashes controlled chaos in the run game, consistently staying square to the line while sifting through traffic to find the ball with natural instincts
Fires downhill like a heat-seeking missile, showing explosive burst through gaps and natural timing when attacking the line of scrimmage
Takes on blocks with serious pop in his hands, consistently jolting tight ends backward before violently disengaging to pursue
Brings the thunder as a tackler between the tackles, showing consistent wrap-up technique and driving through contact with bad intentions
Natural feel for working through traffic, using quick feet and leverage to slice between blocks without losing momentum to the ball
Shows impressive range flowing sideline-to-sideline, eating up ground with long strides and closing burst to the perimeter
Effective blitzer with natural timing and burst, consistently catching protection schemes off-balance with his acceleration
Disciplined eyes in zone coverage, maintaining proper depth and showing awareness of route combinations developing around him
Cons:
Struggles to disengage once offensive linemen lock onto his frame, particularly against guards who can match his power at point of attack
Shows some hesitation diagnosing play direction against teams that utilize heavy pre-snap motion and misdirection
Can get caught flat-footed in man coverage, allowing separation at the top of routes rather than staying in phase through breaks
Sometimes takes circuitous pursuit angles to the ball, creating extra space for runners to exploit in the open field
Will occasionally overrun plays from the backside, creating cutback lanes by getting too aggressive flowing to the ball
Summary:
Barrett Carter is best suited for NFL teams that utilize multiple defensive fronts and prioritize aggressive linebacker play against the run. His skillset will appeal to defensive coordinators, as he excels at stacking and shedding tight ends, delivering impactful tackles. While Carter requires development in man-to-man coverage, he’s poised to make an immediate impact as a run-stopper and special teams contributor.
Expect Barrett Carter to make a swift impact as a base defense linebacker and special teams standout, while refining his coverage skills. His long-term potential hinges on his ability to enhance his man-to-man coverage technique. However, his foundation as a formidable run defender and blitzer ensures he’ll be a valuable asset to any defensive front seven seeking energetic and explosive talent at the linebacker position.
Carter cemented his legacy in his senior season, earning Butkus Award finalist recognition as captain of the Clemson Tigers’ defense. His remarkable durability was on full display, playing a staggering 838 snaps – the most by a Clemson linebacker since Ben Boulware in 2016. Throughout his collegiate career, Carter showcased his versatility by making a significant impact in every defensive phase. Notably, he achieved a rare feat as the only FBS player during his tenure to record 30+ tackles for loss, 20+ pass breakups, 3+ interceptions.
Information in this article first appeared on NFL Draft Buzz and is used with permission. Find the latest coverage, analysis, and player rankings for the 2025 NFL Draft at nfldraftbuzz.com

Follow, Like and Subscribe to Bucs Report
