Who is Andre Carter II? Army player making a rare entry into 2023 NFL draft 

Andre Carter II will be the first player to benefit from the change in the military commitment rules for service academy graduates. He will be the second Military Academy player selected in the common draft era next month.

The Army Black Knights linebacker, who is considered a first-round pick by many analysts, was due to serve in the military for five years. However, a relaxation of the military commitment policy means he will defer the service until the end of his NFL career.

The 6 ft. 7 in., 260 lb. outside linebacker was born on June 2, 2000. The early part of his life was spent in California. His family eventually moved to Missouri City, Texas. After graduating from high school, he spent one year at Cheshire Academy in Cheshire, Connecticut.

Andre Carter II's college career

Carter is a highly-rated collegiate defensive player. He played as a wide receiver and tight end during his high school days at Westbury Christian High School. Receiving little attention from FCS and FBS colleges, Carter decided to attend the US Military academy.

During his freshman year at West Point, Carter didn't participate in any of the Army Black Knight games. However, in his sophomore year, he played in ten games and recorded 14 tackles, as well as one sack, one forced fumble, and one interception.

Andre Carter II had a breakthrough performance in his junior year with the Black Knights. Carter ranked second in the nation with 15.5 sacks behind Will Anderson Jr. and had a total of 44 tackles, including 18.5 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles.

The linebacker went on to play his senior year in the military football program, with thin hopes of becoming a professional. He ended his college career with 95 combined tackles (64 solos), 19.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, five passes defended, and two interceptions.

He also participated in the Liberty Bowl (2020), the Armed Forces Bowl (2021), and the Senior Bowl (2023).

Carter's future in the US military

Carter is set to be selected in the first or second round of the draft next month. Nonetheless, he still has a future commitment to the military. However, before he starts sending rockets and missiles as an army officer, he will have to detonate the opposition's offense in the NFL.

The federal government altered the policies regarding the obligations of service academy graduates to commence active duty service right after completing their education. Initially, the individual in question was scheduled to serve on active duty for five years before becoming eligible to join the NFL.

However, the policy was revised again to enable Carter to pursue a professional football career right after graduating. As a result, he will become the first West Point graduate selected in the NFL draft in over six decades. He’ll play immediately in the league, with the understanding that he will serve in the Army once his NFL career concludes.