The Green Bay Packers made a significant roster move on Tuesday by waiving kicker Anders Carlson. Carlson, a seventh-round draft pick in 2023, failed to meet the team's expectations for performance and consistency.
During training camp, Carlson showed promise by making 82.2% of his kicks in practice. However, his competition, Greg Joseph, was not far behind with a 78.1% success rate. The decision to release Carlson likely stemmed from his struggles during the 2023 season, where he led the league in missed extra points and total kicks.
One of Carlson's most notable misses came during the NFC divisional playoffs against the San Francisco 49ers when he failed to convert a crucial 41-yard field goal. This performance, coupled with his inconsistent play throughout the season, raised concerns within the Packers organization.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst emphasized the importance of improvement for Carlson earlier in the offseason. Despite showing flashes of potential, Carlson's inability to deliver under pressure ultimately led to his release.
The Packers will now rely on Greg Joseph to handle kicking duties moving forward. Joseph, who was brought in to challenge Carlson, will have the opportunity to solidify his role as the team's primary kicker.
As the Packers make adjustments to their roster ahead of the upcoming season, the decision to part ways with Carlson reflects their commitment to fielding a competitive and reliable team.
