Is Philadelphia Eagles DT Jalen Carter Still Defensive Rookie of The Year Favorite?
The Philadelphia Eagles have become known for having a top-tier defense in the NFL, but after a couple of blowout losses, will the team's struggles cost Jalen Carter Defensive Rookie of the Year?
Early in the season, there was no denying the impact that Carter was having on the field in limited opportunities as the team tried to find a role for the elite rookie pass rusher while getting off to a dominant start at 10-1.
However, in the past two weeks, Philly has given up 75 points, so what has Carter done during that time to keep himself in contention for the prestigious Rookie of the Year title?
In the past two games against the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys, Carter's combined stats are four total tackles, two solo tackles, and a touchdown. His full-season stats are 27 tackles, 16 solo tackles, seven quarterback hits, six tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one touchdown.
Carter has put up all those numbers despite registering zero starts in his 12 games this season.
Philadelphia Eagles rookie Jalen Carter remains a favorite for the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
© Eric Hartline, USA TODAY
Regardless of the Eagles' recent defensive shortcomings, Carter has already proven himself to be an elite defender and individual player. As the odds currently stand, Carter remains the favorite to win Defensive Rookie of the Year at -500, according to Fox Sports.
Tied for second place at +700 are Houston Texans pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon, two top defenders selected in this class, ahead of Carter, who was the fourth-highest drafted defender and the No. 9 player overall.
Should Carter win the award, it would place his name among former rookies who have become regulars in the Defensive Player of the Year discussion since winning the award, such as Micah Parsons, Nick Bosa, and Aaron Donald.
Although "Breadman Jalen" may remain the favorite to win individual hardware, that's not all that's on the rookie's mind. Carter cares about team success and wants to win a Super Bowl in his first season. This is something that remains a possibility, but first, the team must get back to its winning ways on Monday Night Football versus Witherspoon and the Seahawks.
