Top NFL prospect Jalen Carter pleads no contest, faces no jail time for fatal car crash
University of Georgia standout Jalen Carter will be a free man when he almost inevitably hears his name called early on the first day of next month’s NFL Draft.
The massive defensive tackle pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless driving and racing charges Thursday. He was sentenced to a year of probation, a $1,000 fine, a defensive driving course and 80 hours of community service.
Carter’s attorney in Georgia, Kim T. Stephens, also sought to “debunk false information” about Carter’s connection to a Jan. 15, 2023 car crash that killed UGA teammate Devin Willcock and recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy, following the Georgia Bulldogs’ celebration of their second consecutive college football championship.
Stephens said in a statement obtained by the Daily News, “Jalen Carter’s actions on Jan. 15, 2023, did not cause the tragic accident,” as evidenced by the fact police only charged him with a pair of misdemeanors.
He also stated Carter — who was not under the influence of alcohol — “stopped his car immediately after the accident occurred and ran toward the wrecked vehicle while his passenger called 911.”
Carter spoke to police and was told he could leave the scene, Stephens said.
Most analysts view Carter among the top college prospects in this year’s NFL Draft, beginning April 27 in Kansas City, Mo. Questions about Carter’s possible involvement in January’s crash may have caused concern for teams lining up to sign him to a multi-million dollar deal.
Carter’s off-the-field behavior also came into question in February when ESPN analyst Todd McShay wondered if unspecified “character issues” might impact his draft status. People connected to the University of Georgia’s football program, including defensive line coach Tray Scott, rushed to defend the 21-year-old standout as a stellar teammate and charitable figure.
Concerns about his conditioning arose during Wednesday’s Pro Day in Georgia, where Carter worked out for NFL scouts. He arrived weighing 323 pounds, which is 9 pounds heavier than his scouting combine weigh-in, according to ESPN. Carter reportedly struggled to complete drills and aborted parts of the workout due to cramping and labored breathing.
SportsTalkAtl.com wondered if controversy surrounding Carter might cause him to drop to the No. 8 draft pick, where the Atlanta Falcons could swoop in and keep him in Georgia.
Former NFL scout and general manager Rick Spielman told USA today earlier this month that Carter “may be the most talented player in this year’s draft.”
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