Defensive tackle Jalen Carter made a significant impact last Sunday for the Philadelphia Eagles, achieving five tackles, three quarterback hits, two sacks, two passes defensed, and a forced fumble during their 28–22 playoff victory against the Los Angeles Rams.
The win secured Philadelphia a place in the NFC championship game, and many observed the 23-year-old’s impressive performance—including iconic defensive tackle Aaron Donald.
“I haven’t seen football like that in ages,” he told his friend and fellow Pitt graduate LeSean McCoy. “That dude Jalen Carter man, my substitute has arrived.”
On Friday afternoon, Carter learned about Donald’s remarks and shared a positive response.
“That’s great; I haven’t seen that yet,” he remarked. “That’s great, dude.” I have always wished to converse with AD. … Simply to receive that feedback from him, a top talent, after watching his film, from which I gained valuable insights. That really means a lot, dude. I’m about to watch that video—most likely enjoy it and view it around 20 times.
“I enjoy listening to that man,” Carter went on. “That’s affection from an original right there.” Honestly, I’m at a loss for words; that’s what love is, my friend. “If I’m receiving it from him, that signifies something right there.”
It’s quite impressive to receive input from one of the greatest defensive tackles the league has ever known.
The Eagles will face the Washington Commanders on Sunday, and the victor will advance to Super Bowl LIX. The game at Lincoln Financial Field is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. EST.
Carter’s emergence has been a storyline all season long for the Eagles. Drafted ninth overall in 2024, many saw him as a raw but promising talent coming out of Georgia, where he was a critical piece of their back-to-back National Championship teams. However, it’s safe to say he’s exceeded expectations, becoming a dominant force on a defense already stacked with talent. His ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage has been instrumental in Philadelphia’s playoff run, and last Sunday’s game against the Rams was a masterclass in what the rookie can do.
Against a Los Angeles team led by Matthew Stafford, Carter’s impact was undeniable. His forced fumble on Kyren Williams in the second quarter shifted the momentum in Philadelphia’s favor. The two sacks and three quarterback hits he recorded put constant pressure on Stafford, forcing him to make hurried decisions. This level of production, especially in the playoffs, underscores why Carter is already being mentioned alongside elite players like Donald.
Aaron Donald’s praise, in particular, is no small feat. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, Donald has been the benchmark for interior defensive linemen for nearly a decade. To have a player of his caliber recognize Carter’s talent speaks volumes about the rookie’s potential. It also highlights how Carter is positioning himself as the future face of the defensive tackle position in the NFL.
For Carter, this moment is undoubtedly special. Being acknowledged by a player he’s studied and admired for years is a validation of the hard work and dedication he’s put into his craft. Carter’s comments reflect his humility and eagerness to continue learning from the best, even as he carves out his own legacy.
Philadelphia fans have every reason to be excited about Carter’s future. With veterans like Fletcher Cox mentoring him, he’s in an environment that fosters growth and development. The Eagles’ defensive line, already one of the most feared in the league, becomes even more potent with Carter playing at this level.
As the Eagles prepare to face the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship game, all eyes will be on Carter once again. The Commanders boast a strong offensive line, but they’ll have their hands full trying to contain the rookie. If Carter can replicate the dominance he showed against the Rams, Philadelphia’s chances of advancing to Super Bowl LIX will increase significantly.
The matchup itself promises to be an intense battle. The Commanders, led by their young quarterback Sam Howell, have been a surprise contender this season. Their ability to protect Howell and establish the run game will be crucial against an Eagles defense that thrives on pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
For the Eagles, this game is about more than just a trip to the Super Bowl—it’s an opportunity to prove they’re the most complete team in the league. With an offense led by MVP candidate Jalen Hurts and a defense featuring stars like Haason Reddick, Darius Slay, and of course, Jalen Carter, Philadelphia has all the tools to secure a victory.
Carter, however, remains focused on the task at hand. While the praise from Donald is undoubtedly motivating, his ultimate goal is to help his team win a championship. If his performance last Sunday is any indication, he’s more than ready for the challenge.
Philadelphia fans will pack Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, hoping to witness another dominant performance from their team—and from Carter. A win would not only send the Eagles to their second Super Bowl in three years but also solidify Carter’s status as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
As for Carter, he’s keeping things in perspective. “It’s all about the next game,” he said earlier this week. “We’ve got work to do.”
For now, the spotlight is on him, and it’s well-deserved. The Eagles are one win away from the Super Bowl, and Jalen Carter is one reason why.
