Northwest Missouri State University senior linebacker Carter Edwards has been named to D2Football.com's Preseason Elite 100 Watch List.

Edwards is coming off a 2024 season which saw him earn first-team all-MIAA status at linebacker. Edwards played in 10 games and made seven starts at linebacker for the 'Cats last season. He ranked second on the squad in tackles (57) and tied for third on the team in tackles-for-loss (8.0). Edwards tallied two interceptions, notched three sacks and broke up three passes. He was named the MIAA defensive player of the week after helping Northwest to a 14-9 home win over Emporia State. Edwards has played in 29 games and has posted 83 total tackles in his three-year playing career at Northwest. 

The Elite 100 Watch List was selected by the staff of D2Football.com with the input of numerous sitting head coaches as well as professional football scouting veteran Josh Buchanan. The players listed in this release represent the official watch list for the 2025 Elite 100 Team, which will be announced at the conclusion of the season. The team includes first and second team selections for offense, defense and special teams along with 25 "Squad" players for offense and defense. Squad players are equivalent to "honorable mention" selections in similar national recognition lists.

Northwest will open the 2025 season Thursday, Aug. 28, at Minnesota State. Kick is set for 6 p.m. at Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato, Minn.