Daniel Carlson, the Las Vegas Raiders’ placekicker, has established himself as one of the most reliable and prolific kickers in the NFL since entering the league in 2018. Known for his powerful leg and consistent accuracy, Carlson has become a cornerstone of the Raiders’ special teams unit.
Career Overview
Born on January 23, 1995, in Dallas, Texas, Daniel Carlson attended Auburn University, where he set multiple school records for field goals and scoring. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft but was waived after two games. Shortly thereafter, he was claimed off waivers by the Oakland Raiders, where he has played ever since.
Since joining the NFL, Carlson has made 203 of 232 field goal attempts (87.5%) and 223 of 233 extra point attempts (95.7%), accumulating 832 total points. His 203 field goals rank second in NFL history, and his 87.5% field goal percentage ranks fourth among kickers with at least 200 attempts.
Longest Field Goal
Daniel Carlson’s longest field goal in the NFL is 57 yards. This impressive kick showcases his strong leg and ability to perform under pressure. While specific details of the game and circumstances surrounding this kick are not readily available, it stands as a testament to his range and consistency.
Blocked Kicks
Despite his strong performance, Carlson has experienced a notable blocked kick. In the 2025 season, during a game against the Chicago Bears, his 54-yard field goal attempt was blocked by Josh Blackwell in the final minute, preserving a 25-24 victory for the Bears.
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of special teams play and the challenges kickers face, even with their extensive preparation and skill.
Salary & Contract
In December 2021, the Las Vegas Raiders signed Daniel Carlson to a four-year, $18.4 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid kickers in the NFL at the time. The deal included $10.2 million guaranteed.
As of the 2025 season, Carlson’s contract is in its final year. While he is not currently among the top 10 highest-paid kickers, his performance continues to solidify his value to the team.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Daniel Carlson’s future with the Raiders appears promising. His consistent performance and leadership on special teams make him a valuable asset. As he enters the final year of his current contract, discussions regarding a potential extension are anticipated. Given his track record and importance to the team, it’s likely that the Raiders will seek to secure his services for the long term.
Upcoming Games
The Las Vegas Raiders’ upcoming schedule includes several key matchups:
Tennessee TitansLas Vegas RaidersLas Vegas Raiders
Kansas City Chiefs
Jacksonville JaguarsLas Vegas RaidersLas Vegas Raiders
Denver Broncos
Dallas CowboysLas Vegas RaidersThese games present opportunities for Daniel Carlson to continue his role as a pivotal contributor to the team’s success.
Conclusion
Daniel Carlson‘s journey from a fifth-round draft pick to one of the NFL’s most reliable kickers is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication. His powerful leg, consistent accuracy, and ability to perform under pressure have made him an invaluable asset to the Las Vegas Raiders. As he approaches the final year of his contract, the future looks bright for Carlson, with potential for continued success and contributions to the team’s special teams unit.
