Washington Redskins 2020 Draft Profiles: Shyheim Carter, S, Alabama

Shyheim Carter

Safety

Height: 6’0”

Weight: 191 lbs.

Alabama

Strengths:

Shyheim Carter is physical with great instincts and closing speed, as he’s functioned as a nickel corner and safety at Alabama. He plays well in space and is dangerous in space with the ball in his hands on interceptions. Carter has also shown the ability to fight through blockers to force turnovers. He was highly active and productive as a junior and senior, averaging 43.5 tackles (25.5 solo and 18 assisted), one forced fumble and 1.5 interceptions over those two seasons.

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Weaknesses:

Some scouts at The Draft Network have knocked Carter for being “stiff” and lacking the fluidity of more polished cornerbacks. Also, he wasn’t a natural free safety in college, which limits how he may be utilized in the NFL. He could stand to improve his range in deep zones, and he has average length and height for the position.

Why he may fit with Washington:

Washington was 18th in pass defense in 2019 with 238.9 passing yards allowed per game. While there are many for needs on a roster coming off a 3-13 season, the Redskins desperately need an infusion of talent in the secondary. Carter could be a great addition for new head coach Ron Rivera’s defense with his ball skills and playmaking ability.

Bottom Line:

Shyheim Carter projects nicely as a nickel corner in the NFL thanks to his physicality, strength and instincts, and while he won’t be a franchise changer, he could be a solid contributor in an important role at the next level.

Projected Round: 4th round