The beast has been unleashed.
Redskins defensive end Andre Carter is a stud. Maybe not the NFL’s biggest end, but certainly one of its more imposing. He’s ripped and rugged with a stare that would make most people step back.
And they would be missing a heckuva guy.
Readying for Dallas on Sunday, Carter is once again beloved by Redskins fans after registering seven sacks this season, 10th most in the NFL. No longer lumped with Adam Archuleta and Brandon Lloyd as the failed free agent class of 2006, Carter has validated his $30 million contract.
“Everything is a matter of time,” he said. “It was a matter of adjustment. Last year, it was getting familiar with the scheme and the guys around you.
“You feed off your teammates and your teammates feed off you and that’s the way you grow and gain a sense of camaraderie.”
No one has benefitted greater from the Redskins four-man pass rush this season than Carter.
“Four guys rushing has allowed him to be more aggressive and be what he wants to do,” said defensive end Phillip Daniels. “He’s one on one with the tackle. It’s a little bit different than last year when we had a three-man front.”
The Redskins need a big effort from Carter versus the Cowboys on Sunday — the NFL’s third-ranked passing attack. If Washington’s decimated secondary doesn’t get pressure up front, they’ll be more vulnerable than a lost tourist. The Skins need a pass rush from Carter, who has sacks in three of the last four games.
Linebacker Marcus Washington isn’t surprised over Carter’s quick start. He saw those offseason workouts where Carter was “getting after it” to improve his strength.
“He’s somewhat of a beast and has been beasting people this year,” Washington said. “They’re letting him go be Andre, plow around. It’s paid off for him and us.”
Ironically, one of the more violent positions onthe field often produces some of the nicer people. The gentle giants. Past Redskins legends Dexter Manley and Charles Mann were some of the nicer people you’ve ever meet. Nowadays, you won’t find two friendlier guys than Carter and Daniels. Away from Redskin Park, Carter said his 6-foot-4, 252-pound frame often generates curious questions from passersby.
“I’m either a football player or basketball player [in their eyes],” he said. “They’re curious to see what it’s like. I’ve had good conversations from the average Joe to the CEO.”
Wait, Carter doesn’t sound like a beast after all.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
