Breaking News: Former Packers Kicker Anders Carlson Signs with New York Jets Practice Squad
In a significant move for both the New York Jets and former Green Bay Packers kicker Anders Carlson, the Jets have announced that Carlson has signed to their practice squad following a tumultuous rookie season in Green Bay. The addition of Carlson, who was waived by the Packers earlier this season, provides the Jets with an extra option as they look to solidify their kicking situation for the rest of the 2024 NFL season.
Carlson’s signing with the Jets comes as part of the team’s ongoing search for stability at the kicker position. The Jets have been grappling with inconsistent performances from their kickers this year, making Carlson a potential candidate to help address the issue. Although he has faced challenges during his brief NFL tenure, the Jets hope that the 24-year-old’s experience and potential can bring some much-needed reliability to their special teams unit.
**Carlson’s Struggles in Green Bay**
Anders Carlson’s tenure with the Green Bay Packers was marked by inconsistency. After being selected by the Packers in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Carlson faced high expectations as he stepped into the spotlight, succeeding veteran kicker Mason Crosby, who had been with the Packers for over a decade. However, Carlson’s rookie season was anything but smooth.
Throughout the first few weeks of the 2023 season, Carlson struggled with accuracy, missing several crucial kicks. The Packers, who were in the midst of transitioning to a new era with rookie quarterback Jordan Love, needed a reliable kicker to help provide stability in tight games. Unfortunately, Carlson’s difficulties in converting field goals and extra points put additional pressure on a team that was already navigating the challenges of a young offense.
Despite his potential and strong leg, Carlson finished his rookie season with a field goal accuracy rate that fell below the league average. His struggles were especially evident in high-stress situations, where his misses often proved costly. After missing several key kicks in losses to both the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions, Carlson was ultimately waived by the Packers in early October.
Though the Packers’ decision to move on from Carlson was seen as a disappointment, it was not necessarily a reflection of his talent, but rather an indication of the high stakes in the NFL, where even rookie kickers are expected to perform at a high level right out of the gate. Carlson’s time in Green Bay was a learning experience, one that many believe could help him refine his skills moving forward.
**Jets Looking for Stability**
The New York Jets have had their own issues with the kicking game this season. After a promising start to the 2024 campaign, the Jets’ special teams play has been marred by inconsistent kicking performances, particularly in the red zone. The team has had to rotate through kickers, and while veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein started the season as the main option, a series of missed field goals and extra points forced the Jets’ coaching staff to look for alternatives.
Signing Anders Carlson to the practice squad allows the Jets to bring in a young, talented kicker who has the potential to develop into a long-term solution. While Carlson is not yet expected to challenge Zuerlein for the starting role immediately, he will have an opportunity to compete for the job in the coming months. The Jets’ coaching staff, led by head coach Robert Saleh, is known for taking a patient approach with players, and Carlson’s development could be key to the team’s future success.
Carlson’s powerful leg and ability to hit long-range kicks make him an intriguing prospect. At Auburn, where he played college football, Carlson demonstrated his potential with impressive performances on high-pressure kicks, and he was known for his ability to handle the mental aspect of the kicking game. However, translating that success to the NFL has been a challenge, as rookie kickers often struggle with the speed and intensity of the league.
For now, the Jets are focusing on Carlson’s development in the practice squad, where he can continue to hone his craft without the pressure of live game action. If Carlson can find a rhythm and show consistency in practice, he may get a chance to join the active roster as a backup or even take over starting duties down the line.
**The Future for Carlson and the Jets**
While it remains to be seen whether Carlson will ultimately succeed in New York, his signing represents a fresh start after a rough rookie year. The Jets are known for giving young players opportunities to develop, and Carlson will have access to a strong coaching staff and a supportive environment as he works to improve his game.
The future of Anders Carlson with the New York Jets will depend on his ability to find consistency and adapt to the NFL’s high-pressure environment. If Carlson can rebound from his struggles in Green Bay and prove himself in practice, he may eventually earn a spot on the Jets’ active roster, potentially making a name for himself as the team’s kicker of the future.
In conclusion, the New York Jets’ signing of Anders Carlson to their practice squad marks an important development for both the team and the kicker. While Carlson’s time in Green Bay was short-lived, his opportunity with the Jets gives him a chance to reset and prove his value in the NFL. As the Jets look to stabilize their kicking game, Carlson’s potential could be a key piece in their long-term special teams strategy.
