Xavier Carlton: Rising NFL Star with Dominant Edge-Rushing Potential

Introduction to Xavier Carlton

Xavier Carlton has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most physically gifted defensive ends entering the NFL. With a towering height of 6 feet 6 inches and a powerful build, Carlton brings a blend of size, strength, and athleticism that NFL scouts crave. His journey from high school dominance to collegiate consistency has now placed him on the radar as a promising edge rusher for the Chicago Bears.

Emerging from a successful college career split between Utah and California, Carlton earned recognition for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and backfield disruption. As an undrafted free agent, he signed with the Bears and is already being touted as a potential sleeper in the 2025 rookie class.

Quick Biography

Born on August 22, 2001, in Modesto, California, Xavier Carlton grew up surrounded by the competitive energy of American football. From a young age, he displayed natural athletic talent and a strong work ethic. His early exposure to the sport helped him develop essential skills that would later make him a dominant defensive presence.

Carlton attended Modesto Christian High School in California before transferring to Juan Diego Catholic High School in Utah. At both institutions, he earned All-State honors and showcased versatility, playing both defensive end and tight end positions. His high school career laid the foundation for a highly rated four-star recruitment status.

Educational Path and Football Development

While academics remained important, football was the centerpiece of Xavier’s ambitions. After high school, he committed to the University of Utah, where he played for two seasons. Although he showed flashes of potential, his playing time was limited, prompting a strategic transfer to the University of California, Berkeley.

At Cal, Carlton blossomed into a force on the defensive line. With increased playing time and a refined understanding of defensive schemes, he delivered standout performances that elevated his draft stock. His senior year was particularly impressive, recording career-high numbers across the board.

College Career Overview

Utah Years

Carlton’s collegiate journey began with the Utah Utes, where he appeared in 15 games over two seasons. Though his role was more rotational, he demonstrated his potential with consistent effort, totaling 19 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, and 1 sack. These performances hinted at the breakout he would later experience at Cal.

Breakout at Cal Berkeley

Upon transferring to Cal, Carlton’s impact was immediate. Over 38 games, he recorded 130 tackles, 18 sacks, and 23 tackles for loss. His 2024 campaign was especially noteworthy, with 47 tackles, 11 TFLs, 9 sacks, and multiple quarterback hurries. These stats reflected not only his physical growth but also his mental development in reading offenses and reacting swiftly off the edge.

Physical Profile and Strengths

Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 273 pounds, Xavier Carlton is a prototype for the modern-day edge rusher. His long arms, upper body strength, and ability to engage blockers make him a reliable run defender and pass disruptor. He uses his reach to maintain leverage, shed blocks effectively, and track ball carriers behind the line of scrimmage.

Carlton’s athletic traits allow him to play multiple alignments on the defensive front. His versatility has made him valuable in both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes. With proper development, especially in hand usage and speed-to-power transitions, he has the potential to become a starting-caliber NFL defender.

Transition to the NFL

Despite his strong college numbers, Xavier Carlton went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the Chicago Bears recognized his upside and signed him as a priority free agent. The deal included guaranteed money, indicating the team’s belief in his long-term potential.

Carlton joined the Bears during rookie minicamp and quickly began making an impression. Coaches have highlighted his work ethic, coachability, and physical tools. While his pass-rush technique still requires refinement, his traits give him a real shot at earning a spot on the 53-man roster.

Contract and Professional Outlook

Carlton signed a three-year rookie contract with the Chicago Bears worth approximately $2.985 million. The deal includes a $70,000 guarantee and a $20,000 signing bonus, aligning with typical rookie contracts for undrafted players with developmental value.

In terms of playing time, he is projected to begin as a special teams contributor and rotational defensive lineman. With continued growth in flexibility and technique, Carlton could evolve into a reliable depth piece and potential starter within a few seasons.

Statistical Summary

College Career Totals:

• Games Played: 53

• Total Tackles: 149 (74 solo)

• Sacks: 19

• Tackles for Loss: 27

• Passes Defended: 5

• Fumble Recoveries: 2

These statistics underline Carlton’s consistent presence on the field and ability to make impactful plays behind the line of scrimmage.

Latest Developments and Future Potential

As of the latest preseason updates, Xavier Carlton is viewed as a developmental project with high upside. The Bears coaching staff is reportedly impressed with his physicality and motor. If he performs well during training camp and preseason games, he may secure a valuable backup role heading into the regular season.

Long term, Carlton has the tools to become a disruptive edge rusher in the league. With his combination of frame, football IQ, and growth trajectory, he could emerge as one of the better undrafted pickups of 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What position does Xavier Carlton play?
A: He plays as a defensive end and edge rusher, known for his size, strength, and backfield disruption skills.

Q2: Where did Xavier Carlton play college football?
A: He played at the University of Utah and later transferred to the University of California, Berkeley.

Q3: How tall is Xavier Carlton?
A: He stands 6 feet 6 inches tall.

Q4: Which NFL team signed Xavier Carlton?
A: The Chicago Bears signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2025.

Q5: What are his strengths as a player?
A: His strengths include physical size, tackling ability, versatility, and run-stopping skills.

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