Raiders Face Kicker Uncertainty After 2025 Season
The Las Vegas Raiders may be looking for a new kicker following the 2025 NFL season, as Daniel Carlson's performance appears to have declined.
Legacy of Raiders Kickers
The Raiders have a history of legendary kickers. George Blanda set the standard before Sebastian Janikowski, and after Janikowski's retirement, Daniel Carlson emerged midway through the 2018 season.
Carlson quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname "Cash Money Carlson" for his accuracy and reliability in clutch moments. For years, he consistently delivered for the team.
Recent Struggles in the 2025 Season
However, Carlson's success has diminished recently, especially during the 2025 season when he has not looked like his usual self.
Week 9 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
- Carlson failed to execute a proper kickoff into the landing zone on the opening drive, negatively impacting the team’s momentum.
- He missed an extra point attempt in the first half.
- The Raiders eventually lost in overtime by a single point, a margin directly influenced by Carlson’s mistakes.
Meanwhile, Jaguars’ second-year kicker Cam Little made an NFL-record 68-yard field goal to close the first half.
“Head coach Pete Carroll all but admitted how frustrating this was during his postgame media availability.”
These struggles highlight a potential turning point for the Raiders' kicking position moving forward.
Author's summary: The Raiders' long-trusted kicker Daniel Carlson has shown troubling decline in 2025, casting doubt on his future with the team after costly errors late in the season.