Carter Kessler is a true freshman defensive lineman from Shelby, Ohio, standing 6'2" and weighing 250 pounds. A three-star recruit, Kessler played defensive end and tight end at Shelby High, where he earned 2025 Ohio All-Division IV All-State First-Team honors and All-Division IV Northwest District recognition as a senior. During his senior season, he recorded 71 tackles, 12 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and three pass breakups while his team reached the state championship game with a 14-1 record. As a junior, Kessler posted 95 tackles, 10 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, and five pass deflections while his defense allowed 16.8 points per game. He now suits up for West Virginia.

West Virginia2026 — present