LB Chris Carter

[*ochocincos*]

Carter fits what the Bengals have searched for in a SAM since Marvin became head coach.
He would be competing with Dimanche for SAM depth.

I think that with Burfict staying at least on PUP, that gives one spot for a fringe LB to make the roster. Possibly two if Lamur or VRey were to get the boot. That last spot is between Carter, Dimanche, Flowers, Nico Johnson, and Porter.

Depending on what the Bengals are looking for in the final LB spot, they might go with Nico. He's a traditional MIKE with the ability to stop the run. Coming out of Alabama, he was also given a plus for being able to cover RBs and TEs.

Flowers is very fast, but how well does he stop the run? He has bulked up to 250 lbs, which should help his chances at SAM. He is a converted safety and isn't as savvy when it comes to pass rushing.

Dimanche is very similar to Carter, but has experience in the system and the coaches know what he brings.

Porter's chances are slim now since he hasn't been able to stay on the field, but he has the skill set of a LB with position versatility, pass rush, and coverage ability.

I like what Carter brings, but he'll need to have a good showing in the preseason games to earn that final LB spot.