Former Auburn placekicker Daniel Carlson has quietly evolved into one of the NFL’s most reliable kickers since entering the league, but his journey to that point has had plenty of interesting twists — including a surprising connection to the Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie running back Ashton Jeanty. As both former Tigers navigate their early years in the NFL, their paths have crossed in a way that highlights not only their Auburn roots but also the challenges and dynamics of playing in the Raiders’ evolving team environment.
Daniel Carlson’s NFL story began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, after a standout career at Auburn. Known for his accuracy and strong leg, Carlson quickly proved to be a valuable asset for any team willing to give him a chance. After a brief stint with the Vikings, he found a home with the Raiders in 2019, where his clutch kicking and consistency have been critical to Las Vegas’ special teams unit.
Carlson’s steady presence on the field contrasts sharply with the rookie rollercoaster Ashton Jeanty has experienced since his arrival. Jeanty, a versatile running back who also hails from Auburn, was drafted by the Raiders in 2025. Known for his explosive speed and ability to break tackles, Jeanty has impressed scouts with his dynamic skill set. But as a rookie, he’s had to navigate the steep learning curve that comes with transitioning to the NFL level, including finding chemistry with his teammates and adjusting to the increased physicality and speed of the professional game.
What makes the story of Carlson and Jeanty compelling isn’t just that they share Auburn lineage but how their roles with the Raiders intersect. Carlson, as a veteran kicker, carries the responsibility of scoring points in critical moments, often serving as the team’s final hope in close games. His approach to preparation and mental toughness offers a blueprint for younger players like Jeanty, who are still finding their footing and learning to handle the pressures of the NFL.
There’s also a mentorship dynamic at play. Though the kicker and running back operate in very different roles on the field, the locker room environment fosters cross-positional camaraderie. Carlson has taken on a quiet leadership role, helping rookies understand the mental and physical demands of the league, as well as the importance of maintaining focus even when the game’s spotlight isn’t always shining on them.
Jeanty, for his part, has openly expressed admiration for Carlson’s work ethic and professionalism. In interviews, the rookie has cited Carlson’s ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver consistent performances as qualities he aspires to develop himself. This kind of mutual respect between players in different positions highlights the importance of veteran guidance in a young player’s development.
Statistically, Carlson’s impact on the Raiders has been significant. Since joining the team, he has consistently ranked among the top kickers in field goal percentage, often converting crucial attempts from long distances. His precision has saved the Raiders multiple games, and his reliability has allowed offensive coordinators to take more calculated risks, knowing the kicking game can be a safety net.
Jeanty, meanwhile, is still carving out his niche. Early in his rookie season, he has showcased flashes of brilliance with explosive runs and solid pass-catching ability out of the backfield. However, he is also learning the nuances of NFL playbooks, pass protection assignments, and how to read defenses at a much faster pace than in college. His journey is still very much in progress, but the Raiders see him as a promising piece for the future.
Another interesting layer to their shared Auburn background is the culture and expectations that come from playing for a school known for its competitive spirit and tough, disciplined teams. Both Carlson and Jeanty have talked about how their time at Auburn prepared them mentally for the grind of professional football. The high-pressure situations, intense training, and passionate fanbase at Auburn instilled in them a resilience that translates well to the NFL environment.
The Raiders organization has also benefited from having players like Carlson and Jeanty who carry that Auburn mentality. Their presence helps reinforce a team culture focused on perseverance, grit, and continuous improvement. Coaches often mention that having players with a strong football foundation like Auburn alumni contributes positively to team chemistry and work ethic.
Carlson’s role as a veteran presence has been particularly important given the Raiders’ recent roster turnover and coaching changes. Stability at the kicker position, often an overlooked aspect of team success, has allowed the Raiders to focus on developing young talent, including Jeanty. This stability creates a better environment for rookies to grow without the added pressure of uncertainty in critical scoring roles.
Off the field, both players share a commitment to community involvement and charitable work. Carlson has been active in various local Las Vegas initiatives, while Jeanty has expressed interest in giving back to youth programs that helped him grow up in Louisiana. Their willingness to engage with the community further cements their bond as teammates and as representatives of the Raiders.
The dynamic between Carlson and Jeanty also highlights the broader theme of how NFL teams balance the contributions of veterans and rookies. Veterans like Carlson provide consistency and mentorship, while rookies like Jeanty bring energy and potential that can transform a team’s fortunes. Together, they form a microcosm of the Raiders’ ongoing effort to build a competitive roster that blends experience with youth.
Looking ahead, both players have bright futures if they continue on their current trajectories. Carlson’s kicking skills remain elite, and as long as he maintains his health and focus, he will likely continue to be a key factor in close games. Jeanty’s rookie season is an important developmental stage, and with time, he could become a central part of the Raiders’ offense.
Their shared Auburn connection is more than a coincidence—it’s a reminder of how college football programs can shape players who later find common ground in the professional ranks. Carlson and Jeanty’s story also underscores the importance of teamwork, mentorship, and resilience in the high-stakes world of the NFL.
In the end, Daniel Carlson dealing with Las Vegas Raiders rookie Ashton Jeanty is a story about two athletes connected by history, striving to make their mark in a demanding league. It’s about the veteran showing the rookie the ropes, the rookie looking up to the veteran, and both pushing the Raiders forward with determination and skill. For fans of Auburn football and Raiders supporters alike, their journey is one worth watching as the new season unfolds.
