Tennessee Titans defensive back Shyheim Carter first entered the league in 2020 as an undrafted free-agent signing of the New York Jets, but after stints with Gang Green, the Atlanta Falcons, Houston Texans and even multiple in Tennessee since then, the Alabama product entered the 2023 campaign without having played a single regular season game during his career.
Carter’s time finally came in Week 4 against the Cincinnati Bengals, when he was elevated from the practice squad and played 11 snaps apiece on defense and special teams, finishing with one tackle.
Buy Titans TicketsCarter admits the opportunity made him emotional, according to Jim Wyatt of TennesseeTitans.com.
“A few tears were shed,” he said. “It was so surreal… Honestly, just watching God work, seeing Him unfold everything. It was able to bring me tears of joy and put a big smile on my face.”
With his first game under his belt, Carter is hoping to do more and eventually carve out a role for himself. But he knows he can never rest easy.
“I come in not knowing if I’m going to be elevated, if I’m going to be on the practice squad, or if I’m going to be released,” he explained. “I come in with the mindset that I’m going to be evaluated every day, in everything I do. I just keep my head down and work.
“It was a great experience, a great opportunity. For it to be my NFL debut, it was fun… I just want to do whatever I can to create a role, and keep going.”
Carter’s elevation came as a result of an injury to fellow defensive back Elijah Molden, who appears set to return to action this week. It remains to be seen if Carter will get the call again this week, but he’ll be ready if he does.
