Barrett Carter’s rapid rise in Cincinnati is earning national recognition

Fansided | December 26, 2025

Former Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter earns Bengals Rookie of the Year honors from ESPN after an impressive first NFL season in Cincinnati.

Dec 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) in the third quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Former Clemson Tigers standout Barrett Carter continues to validate his rapid rise at the next level.

Ahead of Week 17, ESPN’s NFL Nation reporters selected a rookie of the year for each NFL team, and Carter was the choice for the Cincinnati Bengals after a breakout debut season that quickly exceeded expectations.