Anders Carlson is getting another shot at professional football, and it's happening close to his college roots. The former Auburn standout has signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL, giving him a crucial opportunity to reboot his career after a challenging start in the NFL.
The Stallions made room for Carlson by releasing kicker Jonathan Garibay, who handled duties for the first three games. Garibay was reliable on field goals but had uncharacteristically missed three extra points, opening the door for a new leg in Birmingham.
Carlson's collegiate career at Auburn was one of prolific scoring, where he finished second all-time in points and field goals made—trailing only his brother, Daniel Carlson, now a star with the Las Vegas Raiders. His peak came in 2020, earning First Team All-SEC and Second Team All-American honors after connecting on 20 of 22 field goals. However, accuracy struggles surfaced in his final two seasons, a trend that unfortunately followed him to the pros.
Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2023, Carlson's rookie season was marred by inconsistency, leading the NFL with 13 missed kicks. A pivotal late miss in the Divisional Round playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers underscored the pressure of the position. Brief stints with the 49ers and New York Jets followed, but he was unable to secure a permanent roster spot, leading to his release this offseason.
Now, the UFL presents a fresh canvas. While consistency has been his hurdle, Carlson's powerful leg remains a rare and valuable asset. Interestingly, the UFL's unique scoring rule—awarding four points for field goals of 60 yards or more—could play directly to his strength, turning his big leg into a strategic weapon for the Stallions.
For Auburn fans and followers of his journey, this signing is a compelling storyline of resilience. It's a chance for Carlson to refine his technique, rebuild his confidence, and prove that his talent can shine through on the professional stage once more.
