Too often in the draft, many teams get caught trying to project certain players into only one position or another. They’re given a “tweener” label and thus become something certain GMs and coaches can’t project. They often miss the point. Rather than saying they have no position, smart football people would recognize that player can handle multiple positions. Versatility in the NFL is exceedingly valuable. Few people recognize that better than new head coach Matt Eberflus, which may explain the Chicago Bears’ interest in Tariq Carpenter.
According to Zack Pearson of Bear Report, the team has met with the Georgia Tech safety at least once leading up to the draft. Part of the appeal for Chicago might be his looming switch to linebacker. That could remind certain people of Brian Urlacher back when he arrived in 2000. Carpenter isn’t anywhere near the athlete Urlacher was, but he’s no slouch. Better still, this means he can play both linebacker and safety depending on the situation.
Tariq Carpenter is going to be an interesting fit into the league. He played safety for Georgia Tech, but offers the size to play linebacker and he's better in coverage on the second level. pic.twitter.com/IAcRk1oj8y
— Joe Rowles (@JoRo_NFL) April 12, 2022
Tariq Carpenter coming in hot pic.twitter.com/Jba3c4lIYN
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) February 3, 2022
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Carpenter had a productive college career.
Across four years, he amassed 221 tackles, seven tackles for loss, four interceptions, three forced fumbles, and 17 passes defended. Where he really turned heads, though, was his pro day, where he ran a 4.52 in the 40-yard dash. When you consider he’s 6’3 and 230 lbs, that is an impressive number. He showed that explosiveness later on with a broad jump of 11 feet and four inches. That would’ve tied for the best mark at the scouting combine.
When turning on the tape, it’s easy to see the appeal as well. Tariq Carpenter loves running downhill and delivering the physical strike on ball carriers. He’ll meet running backs in the alley and make wide receivers pay for catching passes in front of him. While not quite fast enough to handle true vertical receiving threats, his good speed, and excellent size make it easier for him to cover opposing tight ends.
The challenge with him will be the transition to linebacker itself. It’s a far different position to play from safety and will take time to learn. The good news is that Eberflus is a former linebacker himself and has coached the position for well over a decade in the NFL. Carpenter would have the perfect environment to thrive in Chicago.
