Chris Carter Earns Player of the Week and Likely a Roster Spot
Aug 30, 2012; Pittsburgh , PA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Jimmy Clausen (7) is hit by Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Chris Carter (54) during the second half of the game at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Although there were plenty of negatives to take away from Pittsburgh’s 25-10 loss to Carolina in their preseason finale, outside linebacker Chris Carter all but sealed up a spot on Pittsburgh’s 53-man roster with the way he played tonight.
Despite the fact that the team traded Adrian Robinson last week to Philadelphia, Carter was not necessarily assured of a place on Pittsburgh’s roster when the preseason concluded. With rookie Alan Baxter breathing down his neck after a stellar effort against the Chiefs, Carter needed a big game tonight against Carolina.
Thankfully for him, he stepped up his game and racked up three tackles and two sacks for his team in a losing effort down in Charlotte. In fact, Carter performed so well that he was named the Steelers Digest Player of the Week by Bob Labriola.
Despite the fact that he will likely make Pittsburgh’s roster for the third consecutive season, the Steelers will need to see more out of Carter during the next two seasons for the outside linebacker to stick and stay with the team.
The former Fresno State Bulldog did little last season in James Harrison’s place (eight tackles and zero sacks) to warrant much confidence, and time is definitely running out for the former fifth round pick. Right now, the third-year player is set to be LaMarr Woodley’s primary backup at left outside linebacker in addition to performing his duties on special teams this fall.
Questions about Carter’s future role on the defensive side of the ball aside, it was nice to see that he stepped up when he needed to in Pittsburgh’s final preseason game.
Stats & Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com and Pro Football Reference
Follow me on Twitter: @DominicDiTolla
Follow & Like “NPC” on Facebook: Nice Pick, Cowher