Green Bay Packers: Matt LaFleur Stands Firm on Kicker Anders Carlson Despite Challenges
In the wake of the Green Bay Packers’ unexpected 8-9 finish in the 2022 season and their absence from the NFL Playoffs, significant changes unfolded. Not only did they part ways with legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers, trading him to the New York Jets, but they also bid farewell to the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, Mason…
In the wake of the Green Bay Packers’ unexpected 8-9 finish in the 2022 season and their absence from the NFL Playoffs, significant changes unfolded. Not only did they part ways with legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers, trading him to the New York Jets, but they also bid farewell to the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, Mason Crosby.
Despite facing criticism during the offseason and training camp for inconsistent kicking in practice, the Packers remained committed to sixth-round pick Anders Carlson, a decision that has been tested with Carlson’s struggles throughout the season, including five missed field goals and three extra point attempts.
The latest setback occurred in the Packers’ 24-22 defeat to the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, where Carlson missed a 43-yard field goal attempt but later redeemed himself with a successful 48-yard kick.
Addressing Carlson’s future on Tuesday, head coach Matt LaFleur expressed unwavering support, putting an end to any speculation:
*”Absolutely. I think, you know, he’s a young kicker that obviously, you know, you have to find consistency in your game… It’s just finding that consistent approach, whatever it may be, for him to go out there and consistently execute. And obviously, those missed PAT’s or field goals, everything gets magnified when you lose. Every phase, so that’s kind of where we’re at.”*
Despite Carlson’s challenges, it’s noteworthy that he currently boasts better field goal accuracy than Mason Crosby did in his rookie year in 2007. Crosby struggled initially, not surpassing an 80% field goal success rate until his fifth NFL season. In fact, he experienced a career-worst 63.7% field goal percentage the following year.
Mason Crosby, the Packers’ all-time points and games leader, had a career marked by inconsistency, finishing with a field goal percentage under 80% seven times in his 16-year career. With a career field goal percentage of 81.4%, Crosby serves as a lesson in patience for fans regarding Carlson’s development. While Carlson’s ceiling remains uncertain, his promising start surpasses Crosby’s early years in 2007.