The road to the NFL can be a challenging one for any athlete and Minnesota Vikings kicker Daniel Carlson is still in disbelief over living his dream.
Getting to the NFL is the dream of many kids growing up. Watching their favorite professional athletes fighting for championships and making a good amount of money while following their passion is appealing to fans everywhere, including those following the Minnesota Vikings.
One young man who recently achieved his dream is kicker Daniel Carlson, who was chosen in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft to compete for the position with veteran Kai Forbath during the preseason and training camp.
Recently, NBC affiliate KOAA News 5 in Southern Colorado spoke with the Colorado Springs native on Saturday night about making it to the NFL and his current battle in training camp. However, the biggest takeaway from their conversation was how he wants to help young people pursue their dreams as well.
"“Quite a few Colorado players around the country playing at the NFL level and it’s kind of fun to give those high schoolers and kids someone to look up to,” Carlson said. “So I take that with a lot of pride and try and use my influence in a positive way.”"
As far as his own dreams, it appears as though Carlson is still in a bit of disbelief that he is currently on an NFL roster.
"“I don’t think it’s completely set in still. But I just keep enjoying it a day at a time.”"
Of course, Carlson will still need to win the camp battle against Kai Forbath if he wants to be a part of the Minnesota Vikings this season. And he is well on track to make a great case for being the team’s kicker after his preseason debut.
Carlson connected on all four for his extra point attempts during the Week 1 preseason game against the Broncos and two field goals, one from 39 yards and the other a boomer from 57 yards out while in his home state.
"“Kind of cool that I started kicking here about an hour down south and to finally play my first NFL game at this stadium, and have my family and friends there, was a dream come true.”"
Daniel Carlson will have more opportunities to prove his worth on kickoffs, field goals, and extra point attempts as the Minnesota Vikings continue to work their way through team practices and preseason contests.