1st-Team All-SEC DE Zachary Carter is ready to take the next step

After being underrated for most of his collegiate career, Florida Gators’ defensive end Zachary Carter finally received some well-deserved praise.

Carter was named to the preseason 1st-team All-SEC team (according to the SEC).

Carter has had an interesting ride at Florida, so this had to feel amazing for him.

This wasn’t the first time Carter was named to the preseason All-SEC team, but it was the first time he’s had the honor of being named 1st-Team.

It may just be preseason, but clearly, the voters have appreciated the improvements Carter has made each year while at Florida.

Zachary Carter will take that next step in 2021 to become one of the best defensive ends in college football.

Carter had his best season last year, compiling nine tackles for a loss and five sacks.

He also added 35 tackles, and he scored a defensive touchdown on a fumble recovery! All of his numbers were an improvement from the year before.

Luckily for the Gators and their fans, Carter decided to come back to Gainesville for one more season before entering the NFL.

Carter showcased his versatility last season, lining up inside and outside, but he will play defensive end on Sundays.

His ability to set an edge and help in the run game will be a big reason why he gets drafted within the first three rounds of the 2022 NFL Draft. Carter is also a great pass-rusher, so I am sure some scouts are drooling about adding him to their defense.

They will get to drool even more this season, as Carter is going to improve even more.

I expect Carter to showcase his skills even more and show he is one of the best defensive ends in the country. Carter, paired with studs Brenton Cox Jr. and Gervon Dexter, will give opposing coaches nightmares this season.

Florida’s defensive line has not been elite for far too long, but Carter will be why the Gators’ defensive line is one of the most feared in college football this season.