This week in Minneapolis, a heated debate has sparked over the legacy of former Vikings star Cris Carter, a Pro Football Hall of Famer. The discussion ignited when former NFL cornerback Asante Samuel Sr. referred to Carter as “overrated” during an episode of his podcast, Say What Needs To Be Said.
Samuel, who played 11 seasons in the league and earned four Pro Bowl selections, claimed that Carter, who had a remarkable 16-year career with eight Pro Bowl appearances, was just a “possession receiver.” He stated, “A receiver that catches the ball and is immediately tackled. That’s what a possession receiver is,” suggesting that Carter’s ability to gain yards after the catch was lacking. Samuel expressed doubt over the impact Carter had on defenses, saying, “What fear does he put in any cornerback or defense?”
In response, Carter seemed taken aback by Samuel’s characterization. On his own podcast, Fully Loaded, he acknowledged being a possession receiver but asserted he was the best at it in NFL history. “Yes, I was a possession receiver, absolutely, but the best possession receiver in the history of the game,” he declared. He further emphasized his scoring ability, noting that he ranks fourth in all-time touchdown receptions despite being out of the game for 23 years.
The debate drew less attention to numbers and more to their different perspectives. Carter pointed out that many speedy receivers failed to score consistently, saying, “There are a lot of fast guys that can’t score the football.” Meanwhile, Samuel expressed his admiration for the game during Carter’s era but maintained his stance.
The conflict intensified after Carter’s remarks about another notable wide receiver, Chad Johnson, further fueling Samuel’s defense of his former colleague. Regardless of differing opinions, both players undeniably left their marks on the NFL, and their legacies continue to provoke discussion in the football community.
