Brian Gutekunst and the Green Bay Packers have not wavered from their confidence in Anders Carlson. Even with Carlson going through the ups and downs that many expected from the rookie kicker, the Packers have been steadfast about being patient with the strong-legged rookie kicker.
“We believe in him, we think he has a lot of talent,” Brian Gutekunst said during a press conference prior to Saturday’s preseason game against the New England Patriots. “You guys have seen his leg strength, his power…But you have to find a way to get more consistent…There’s not a lot of patience sometimes when there needs to be. Mason had some multiple times while he was here where he was in some really bad spots, some struggles, and I always thought Ted (Thompson) gave him a pretty long leash and he always came out of it. I think that’s important…But at some point, when this stuff becomes real, it becomes different.”
Carlson made good on Green Bay’s faith in him on Saturday by putting together a perfect night against the Patriots. Carlson made both of his extra point attempts and drilled a 52-yard field goal right before halftime.
It was great to see Carlson put together a perfect game after going through so many ups and downs throughout training camp thus far.
The Packers are preaching patience and at least for one night, Carlson showed why the Packers are willing to be patient with the rookie kicker.
Another NFC North team made the mistake of cutting Anders’ brother, Daniel too early and now the elder Carlson is one of the best kickers in the game. The Packers don’t want to make that same mistake.