Chris Carter to Pittsburgh Steelers: 2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Chris Carter, at 6'1", 246 pounds, primarily played defensive end at Fresno State. For the purposes of this draft, he's considered a top-10 linebacker prospect, as scouts doubt—even with his muscular frame—he has the size to assert himself in the NFL trenches. 

Despite his "tweener" status, Carter raised his stock in last season by recording 11 sacks, increasing his career total to an impressive 19.5. On paper, at least, he appears to have what it takes.

CBSSports.com breaks down his strengths and weaknesses:

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Positives: Explosive athlete with long arms and muscular frame. Good burst off the snap when rushing from the edge. Dips his shoulder and displays good balance when turning the corner against bigger offensive tackles. Above-average hip flexibility and agility to get low and maintain lean when he gets into the chest of bigger, stronger tackles off the edge. Able to get thin and burst through cracks in the line on inside stunts. Nice spin move back to the inside, using arm length to disengage and close on the quarterback. Maintains proper pad levels when rushing from a stand-up position. Possesses burst and acceleration to chase down ball carriers from behind on running plays. Extends arms against the run to hold off taller, wider blockers and maintain backfield vision to track the ballcarrier.

Negatives: Too small to play classic 4-3 end position at the next level, and has limited experience playing off the line. Lacks the bulk and power to shed bigger blockers and make plays against the run once he loses arm extension and leverage. Will give up pursuit on run plays that he feels are out of his range. Has limited experience playing in space and seems overwhelmed when dropping into zone coverage as a linebacker. Struggles to keep his eyes in the backfield while maintaining a track on receivers in his zone. Displays sluggish reaction to the run, getting a late start toward the ball carrier. Possesses instincts of a defensive end, but frame and physical makeup of a linebacker.

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Chris Carter's "tweener" label might just as well spell "versatility" to the Steelers, who chose him late in the fifth round Saturday. Pittsburgh's vaunted front seven is among the best in the professional ranks, but with an aging James Farrior, they were looking for somebody who can be relied upon to fill holes as necessary. They hope Carter fits that bill, and will be willing to let him take whatever time he needs to develop.