Clemson’s Barrett Carter is finding ways to give back to his community

EASLEY, S.C. — Barrett Carter might be the most dynamic linebacker in the country, a player Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said he’s comfortable rushing off the edge or dropping into coverage against a top-tier receiver. He’s a former five-star recruit and an All-America candidate.

And yet, none of that interests the horde of third graders crowded around Carter on this Friday afternoon in April at West End Elementary School. They have more urgent concerns.

What’s your favorite movie?

If you could turn into any animal, what would it be?

Have you ever had any loose teeth?

(Carter’s replies, in order: “Paul Blart: Mall Cop,” a shark, and “Yes, a long time ago.”)

Carter is used to this strange bit of celebrity. He’s wearing a black Clemson sweatshirt and a bright smile, and the kids are keenly aware he’s important, even if they’re not entirely sure why. Mostly, they’re excited to have a visitor.

This is exactly the reception Carter was hoping for.

“Seeing how their faces light up with smiles,” Carter said, “I’ve always had a passion for kids because I put myself in their shoes. The 30, 45 minutes I spend with them can really impact their lives.”

When Carter was growing up in Georgia, he remembered how the high school football players came to eat lunch with the younger kids. He was in awe of them at the time, but more than that, he was inspired. He wanted to be like them on the football field, but he also understood even then he wanted to be in a position to help others, too.

So for the past two years, Carter has been visiting schools, reading books and answering the barrage of questions that inevitably follows.

One kid is disappointed to learn Carter has never heard of a particular rapper he likes. Another kid is frustrated that Carter has only seen the “Harry Potter” movies and not read the books. Another has tips on playing Minecraft. There are a few…