Kyle Carter, TE, PSU: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Kyle Carter and the Penn State Nittany Lions experienced a head coaching change when Bill O’Brien left for the NFL after the 2013 season. The change occurred halfway through Carter’s stay at Penn State.

After red-shirting his true freshman year in 2011, Carter’s best year came the following season with Matt McGloin under center. Carter caught for 453 yards and two touchdowns his freshman season.

Transitioning from O’Brien to James Franklin impacted Carter’s numbers. In his two seasons under O’Brien, he caught for 675 yards and three touchdowns. Carter caught for only 288 yards and one touchdown in his final two years, under Franklin. His numbers were down to a career worst his senior season, a year that Penn State executed a strong season-long run game.

Measurables

Height: 6′ 3

Weight: 238

40-yard dash: 4.62

Strengths

Carter’s game produced a lot of hype early in his career. In 2012, he was the only freshman named to the John Mackey mid-season watch list, an award presented to college football’s most outstanding tight end.

Carter is a go-getter on the field. He has the reach and size to make a play. Carter has a tight grip and isn’t hesitant to jump up for the ball when downfield. Carter’s hands are a true benefit when reeling in wayward passes. He runs strong and can take a hit without fumbling.

He earned the trust of his team and was targeted on Penn State’s overtime possession in the 2014 Pinstripe Bowl, scoring the game winning touchdown in overtime.

Weaknesses

At the conclusion of his collegiate career, Carter caught 25 yards on only five receptions throughout his final five games. Carter’s stats declined as his years at Penn State progressed. Not utilizing an opportunity to make noise and improve his draft stock, Carter sits as a seventh round pick on NFL big boards.

Team Fits

Chicago Bears, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles

Final Thoughts

On tape, Carter looks like a strong college tight end who could potentially play wide receiver in the NFL. Carter was not invited to the NFL combine but has shown consist strength and quickness at Penn State. Carter looks like a player with the on field talent to play professionally. His off field talent flourishes as well as he is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree.