2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Anthony Carter Jr., OL, North Carolina State University

• Name: Anthony Carter Jr
• Position: OL
• College: NC State University
• Height: 6′ 3″
• Weight: 315 lbs
• X: @thatman_ant
• Instagram: @antcarterjr

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

Watching NFL games on the TV as a kid with my family. I fell in love with the physicality of the game. I started out playing basketball but I was always aggressive. My mom was scared to let me play when I was younger because she was afraid of me getting concussions. Being able to go physically exert dominance is fun! 

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

One of my favorite moments is just being in the weight room and on the field competing. The energy in the environment is next level. I would also say the bond and relationships built over the years. The relationships you build in this environment is what lasts a lifetime.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Going forward I just to physically impose my will against the defender line up across from me. I just want to show I belong and dominate whoever steps in front of me. Stick to my routine, take it day by day and let everything take care of itself. I believe in putting my head down and working. 

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day, who and why? 

I would choose Quenton Nelson. I love the physicality he plays with and how technically sound he plays within that. Having the perfect blend of both can make you very successful in the league. It would be great to pick his brain and learn from him as well.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

I don’t think I can say one, but I would definitely say both on my parents. I say this because of the trials and tribulations they’ve been through to be where they are today. They’ve been through so much growing up and persevered through it all. Just seeing the hard work and dedication they’ve put in to make sure me and my brother had what needed to be successful is inspiring. The sacrifices they’ve made in order for me to be where I am today is something I am forever grateful for.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

I would definitely say gap scheme and wide zone for sure. I say gap scheme because of being a pulling guard and going to light someone up is very exciting. Pulling to run through someone’s face or move them off their spot against their will is a different feeling. I say wide zone because of the ability to run off the ball, displace the defender and on the backside cut the defender off is something I look forward to.

What should we know about Anthony Carter Jr the person?

I am man of God first. Very family-oriented. I am very caring, down to earth, trustworthy, consistent, hardworking and a leader. Outside of football I like to play the game, watch movies and mostly likely to draw different pieces of art. 

What stands out about your film the most?

The use of my strong hands, moving people off the ball in the run game, aggression and motor I play with. Also playing long in pass pro, my ability to pull on plays, and recognition of defensive movement. 

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

Praying and asking God for guidance in whatever challenge that may occur. Leaning on my family in time of need. As well as asking questions to receive help or learn what I can do to improve the situation. 

What would a team get in a player like you?

Someone who shows up as a professional every day, gets along with everyone, a sponge to learn, looking to attack the mission of the organization. A player that’s aggressive, can lead, communicate, play technical and play with a high motor. 

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I love how physical you can play the game of football. Just knowing that the person across from me is giving their all and physically dominating them is exciting. The sharpening of iron that happens between reps of going back and forth is fun.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

If I had to choose from this season I would say Cody Hardy. I say this because the key blocks he makes when he’s cutting back on a defensive player or attached to the hip of an offensive tackle and they are in a combo block. Everyone notices touchdowns but as an offensive lineman and seeing a TE obliterate a defensive end in the run game gets you fired up. He plays aggressively with a nasty streak, which is something that you can’t teach but comes from within.