The New Orleans Saints have officially announced the signing of esteemed All-Pro kicker Daniel Carlson, a development verified by his representatives to the NFL Network. This acquisition marks a significant roster enhancement for the Saints, who have been actively seeking to solidify their kicking position. Carlson's arrival is poised to bring a wealth of experience and a proven performance record to the team's special teams.
Carlson, now 31 years old, has established a distinguished career spanning eight years in the NFL, primarily with the Oakland and Las Vegas Raiders franchises. His tenure has been marked by exceptional achievements, including leading the league in successful field goals with 40 out of 43 attempts in the 2021 season. Furthermore, in 2025, he demonstrated his powerful leg by converting a remarkable 60-yard field goal, setting a personal best. Prior to joining the Raiders, Carlson began his professional journey with the Minnesota Vikings as a fifth-round draft pick in 2018, playing two games before transitioning to the Raiders shortly thereafter. His career field goal accuracy stands impressively at 86.9% (225 of 259) across 129 games, positioning him among the top ten all-time in this category. Additionally, the 2022 All-Pro first-team selection boasts a formidable 95.7% success rate on extra point attempts, converting 244 out of 255 tries. The Saints' decision to sign Carlson comes after a period of evaluation during training camp, where kickers Charlie Smyth and Tanner Brown were competing for the spot, indicating Carlson's superior qualifications were ultimately recognized.
This strategic signing underscores the Saints' commitment to excellence and their proactive approach in strengthening critical facets of their roster. Carlson's consistent precision and long-distance capabilities are invaluable assets that will undoubtedly contribute to the team's competitive edge. His dedication to his craft and his professional journey serve as a testament to the rewards of perseverance and skill, inspiring both current and aspiring athletes to pursue greatness in their respective fields.