David Carter

Born and raised in Vincennes, Indiana, David Carter made his mark at Lincoln High School, where his 6'2", 250-pound frame and generous spirit earned him the description of "a big guy with a big heart." Though he was a solid performer in high school, he didn’t attract widespread recruiting attention. That changed when he found his opportunity at Western Kentucky University, playing under legendary Hilltopper coach Jimmy Feix.

Carter became a four-year offensive line starter for the Hilltoppers from 1973 to 1976, also serving as the team’s long snapper on special teams. During his tenure, WKU twice finished as NCAA Division II National Runners-Up—in 1973 (12-1, 7-0 OVC) and again in 1975 (11-2, 6-1 OVC). As a senior in 1976, he was selected as a team captain and earned AP Second Team All-American honors. He was named WKU’s Athlete of the Year for the 1976-77 and later received lasting recognition as a member of the Ohio Valley Conference’s 40th Anniversary Team in 1988 and Half Century Team in 1998.

NFL scouts saw Carter's potential, and he was selected in the 6th round of the 1977 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers.

Carter built a lasting NFL career in the trenches through grit, discipline, and an unwavering work ethic, becoming a reliable and respected offensive lineman over nine professional seasons. His peak came between 1981 and 1983 with the Houston Oilers, where he served as the team’s starting center, snapping the ball to quarterback greats Ken Stabler, Archie Manning, and Oliver Luck. Carter spent most of his NFL tenure with the Oilers—the team that believed in him—remaining loyal to the organization throughout.

Though offensive linemen often toil outside the spotlight, Carter earned league-wide respect for his strength, steadiness, and quiet leadership. While he may not have received the accolades of more celebrated linemen, Carter’s presence was felt every time the ball was snapped.

David Carter passed away unexpectedly in Houston on July 10, 2021, at the age of 67.

Images from the WKU Athletics Hall of Fame. Biography by John T. Broome.