Jermaine Carter NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Carolina Panthers' Pick

POSITIVES

—A two-time team captain (2016, 2017) and the team's Defensive Player of the Year.

—Scouts praised his work ethic, character, IQ and maturity. Great locker room guy.

—Very active tackler who packs a punch when he meets the ball-carrier.

—Has experience on special teams.

—Smart and poised when diagnosing but explodes through alleys to make hits.

NEGATIVES

—Undersized at 6'0" and 222 pounds.

—Ran a 4.68 at his pro day and missed the bench press due to a pectoral injury.

—Short-area quickness is lacking; was able to get by on instincts and football IQ.

—Blockers will end his day if he's not kept clean by his defensive line.

—Doesn't have the size, strength or speed to handle NFL offenses.

OVERALL

Jermaine Carter was incredibly productive at Maryland, leading the team in tackles each of the last three seasons, but simply lacks the height/weight/speed to be considered a draftable prospect. His motor and football IQ, plus special teams experience, make him a valuable free-agent pickup.

GRADE: 4.99 (Camp Body)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Devante Bond, Tampa Bay Buccaneers