Daniel Carlson (Auburn) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #167 by MIN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Daniel Carlson (Auburn) - 2018 NFL Draft
Position: Kicker
College: Auburn University
Overview
Daniel Carlson was regarded as one of the top kicking prospects heading into the 2018 NFL Draft. Known for his powerful leg and reliability in pressure situations, Carlson had established himself as a premier kicker during his college career at Auburn.
Strengths
- Strong Leg: Carlson consistently demonstrated the ability to kick field goals from long distances, making him a threat from 50+ yards.
- Accuracy: He showcased impressive accuracy throughout his college career, converting a high percentage of his field goal attempts.
- Experience: With multiple seasons as Auburn's starting kicker, Carlson had significant college experience, including high-pressure games in the SEC.
- Kickoff Ability: In addition to his field goal skills, Carlson was also effective on kickoffs, providing teams with strong touchback rates.
Weaknesses
- Inconsistency: While Carlson had a strong career, there were moments of inconsistency that raised concerns about his performance in critical situations.
- Pressure Situations: Although he had experience in high-pressure games, his performance in some clutch moments left evaluators wanting more.
Pro Comparison
Daniel Carlson was often compared to established NFL kickers who possess a similar skill set, including players like Matt Prater and Justin Tucker, who are known for their strong legs and ability to perform in high-stakes situations.
Draft Projection
Daniel Carlson was projected to be selected in the 3rd to 5th round of the 2018 NFL Draft, making him one of the first kickers off the board, given his potential to contribute immediately as a starting kicker in the NFL.
Conclusion
With his combination of power, accuracy, and experience, Daniel Carlson was viewed as a valuable asset for any team looking to solidify their kicking game in the 2018 NFL Draft.