4-Star Zachary Carter Reveals Decision Timeline, Upcoming Visits

ORLANDO, Fla. — While he didn’t accomplish his goal of landing an invite to The Opening, competing in the Orlando Nike Opening Regional camp was a valuable experience for 4-star defensive end Zachary Carter.

The 6’5”, 240-pound Tampa native battled top offensive linemen such as 4-star Robert Hainsey at the event, which gave him a chance to assess where he is against some of the nation’s best in the trenches. 

“It was good to see where I match up with the top guys,” Carter told Bleacher Report. “The first guy I went up against [Hainsey], he was pretty good. He gave me a run for my money. This is a learning experience to help me see what I need to work on. I know I can rush the edge, but this event shows me that I need to build a toolbox to be successful at the next level.” 

While he sees the need to improve in those areas, he’s still got enough potential that a host of colleges around the country are lining up to land his services.

In fact, Carter added offers from LSU, Michigan and Nebraska earlier this week—which brings his total number of suitors to 37.

The nation’s No. 4 strong-side defensive end and the No. 110 overall prospect is in the process of building an itinerary for programs he wants to see in the coming months.

“I think I’m getting to Tennessee’s junior day next. I’ve already been to the recent ones at Clemson and Florida. Maybe Notre Dame too. Those are schools I want to get to,” Carter said.

While he maintains that he has no leaders, there is one coach he admits that he has the strongest bond with.

“[Florida defensive line] Coach [Chris] Rumph at Florida is probably the guy I’m closest with,” Carter said. “After that, it’s probably [co-defensive coordinator and defensive ends] Coach [Marion] Hobby at Clemson."

As for a timeline, Carter is still being patient with the process.

“I will probably [wait] until after my senior season to make my decision. I still have some stuff I need to figure out, and I will take my time to make sure I make the right choice,” he said.

Carter, who hopes to major in broadcast journalism, has a few things that he will weigh heavily when making his decision.

“I want to see if I will like a school even if I’m not playing football. The academic side is very important, and that’s something a lot of people forget about,” Carter explained. “Also, I want to find a family environment. I can’t base everything on just coaches, because coaches move a lot these days, so you can’t base it on just that. You have to like the school for the school itself.”

Sanjay Kirpalani is a National Recruiting Analyst for Bleacher Report. Unless otherwise noted, all quotes obtained firsthand and all recruiting information courtesy of 247Sports. 

Follow @SanjayKirpalani