These 2024 Green Bay Packers are going to be something special. Despite what was expected to be a rebuilding year for the Packers, they ended up being one of four NFC teams left. Additionally, they missed the conference championship by three points.The Packers’ young offense, led by Jordan Love, has shown it can score against any defense.
In a statement released today, Brian Gutekunst outlined Green Bay’s future.Brian Gutekunst on why he didn’t add a veteran instead of keeping rookie Anders Karlsson last season: “It was the best choice.” Although there is currently competition for Carlsen, Gutekunst remains optimistic about the future of his young kicker.
Once the regular season began, Carlson found his game. In the first five games of his career, he made every field goal he attempted (7-7) and went 10-for-10 on extra points. Three of the field goals were 50 yards or longer, including a season-high 53 yards. He kicked an extra point in the Packers’ 18-17 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 3. Anders Karlsson proved to be a rookie as the season progressed.
However, Carlson’s performance subsequently declined. Ten of the Packers’ last 12 games have featured at least one fumble. The contest resulted in five extra points and six field goal attempts.The inconsistent performance of Packers long snapper Matt Orzek didn’t help. Carlsen had no confidence or comfort in not being able to make good shots.
Before the postseason, the Packers said they would not trade Carlson. “We have a lot of confidence in him,” coach Matt LaFleur said. “That’s right. You want him to make every shot. There’s no question about that. But I think it’s part of the growing process. Many young players, especially kickers, unfortunately go through trials and tribulations.Ironically, he is now a competitor in Green Bay. Notably, until 2011 (5th year in the league), legendary kicker Mason Crosby made 80% of his kicks in a season.