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Barrett Carter Wasting No Time Making Statement At Bengals Minicamp
It hasn’t taken long for Barrett Carter to make his presence felt in Cincinnati.
The former Clemson linebacker, selected in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Bengals, is already emerging as a tone-setter at rookie minicamp. According to WLWT sports reporter Jaron May, Carter has been “the vocal leader during walkthroughs” and has consistently led the pack during drills.
Bengals fourth rounder Barrett Carter (#49) has been the vocal leader during walkthroughs.
— Jaron May (@jaron_may) May 9, 2025
He also been at the front of the line for every drill.@WLWTpic.twitter.com/7VCCaHT3BW
Wearing No. 49, Carter has embraced the leadership role many expected of him, showing the same motor and field presence that made him one of Clemson’s most dynamic defenders over the past three seasons. Whether it’s calling out assignments, energizing teammates, or setting the pace during workouts, the Georgia native is making an early case to be a foundational piece of Lou Anarumo’s defense.
Former Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter perform linebacker position drill for NFL Scouts at Clemson Football's 2025 Pro Day© Ken Ruinard - staff / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesCarter racked up 233 total tackles, 12.5 sacks, and three interceptions over 52 games at Clemson, earning All-ACC honors and national recognition as a sideline-to-sideline force. Though he slipped into Day 3 of the draft, many analysts believed he had Day 2 talent, citing his versatility and football IQ as major assets.
Now, in Cincinnati, those traits are quickly translating. With linebacker Germaine Pratt entering the final year of his contract and Logan Wilson cemented as the MIKE, Carter has a chance to compete for reps at WILL or in sub-packages. His early performance suggests he’s not just there to fill depth—he’s pushing to contribute right away.
Barrett Carter may be a rookie, but he’s carrying himself like a veteran—and the Bengals are already taking notice.
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