By Tori Wittenbrock
Sports Reporter
ASHWAUBENON – In the Packers’ final preseason game, just ahead of the 53-man roster cuts, placekicker Anders Carlson nailed a 57-yard field goal to put his team ahead on the scoreboard, unknowingly setting a new Packer record.
Prior to Saturday’s game, former Packer placekicker, the legendary Mason Crosby, held the record for the longest field goal by a Packer player at Lambeau Field at 56 yards, set during their game against the Vikings on Jan. 1 of this year.
“Oh, wow, I did hit it. I wasn’t sure if that was true or not,” said Carlson when he learned of the accomplishment after the game.
“It’s super special to get an opportunity like that and for the guys up front to do their jobs,” said Carlson. “The specialist set me up, and we just hit a clean ball like I know how to do, and it’s really special to celebrate with your teammates.”
Although it is a big accomplishment, Carlson said that he hopes to be able to do it again in an important game.
“Hopefully there is going to be an opportunity like that in the real season,” said Carlson.
Being prepared at all times is one of Carlson’s main strategies to be able to see success.
“I’m trying to do a better job of just staying in the game consistently. Even if we have the ball on the 20, being ready for the next field goal. That’s something I think I’ve learned from game one.”
Being that it was such a long field goal attempt, Carlson said that he knew he had to be ready for anything.
“I thought we were going to punt, but I was also locked in. I knew we were going to get a field goal at some point, so when that flag was drawn, I was ready,” said Carlson.
Head Coach Matt LaFleur said that he was impressed with Carlson’s performance in the game and is looking forward to seeing where the future takes him.
“I thought he did an outstanding job. That was really encouraging to see, a 57-yarder like that,” said LaFleur. “It looked so casual when he kicked it. He’s got a big time leg.”
Although some people have expressed their doubts about the rookie’s ability to compete consistently at the professional level, LaFleur stood by him and said that he believes Carlson has what it takes to be a successful NFL player.
“I think he’s shown improvement, and I’m sure, like any young player, there are going to be some ups and downs, but we have total confidence that he’s got the ability to be able to play in this league for a really long time.”
Despite the new record, LaFleur said that each time they make a decision about going for a field goal, it will be based on the current conditions of the game, but it is comforting to know that Carlson has a leg that can be reliable at long distances.
“I think every game is a little bit different in terms of how aggressive you want to be and a lot of it is going to be dependent on how we feel about our offense when we get in some of those fourth and short situations. Where are we on the field, what is the score of the game, who are we playing… and there are a lot of factors that go into it,” said LaFleur.
On Tuesday, Aug. 29, the Packers released their new roster with Carlson leading the way on the top of the list for special teams.
Regardless of what the future holds, Carlson’s new record has made him a part of Packer history by not only surpassing Crosby, but also by setting a new standard for himself and proving his ability going forward.