Raiders Face Major Daniel Carlson Issue
The Las Vegas Raiders may be searching for a new kicker after the 2025 NFL season, as Daniel Carlson appears to have lost his once reliable form. Throughout their history in Oakland and Las Vegas, the Raiders have featured several famed kickers.
From George Blanda paving the way for Sebastian Janikowski, to Daniel Carlson joining two years after Janikowski’s retirement in 2018, their legacy of strong special teams remained intact for years. Carlson quickly gained fame among fans as “Cash Money Carlson,” known for his precision and composure under pressure. For a long stretch, he consistently delivered when called upon.
Yet, his performance has declined noticeably in recent seasons. The 2025 campaign, in particular, has highlighted his struggles, with Week 9’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars standing out as a low point.
Week 9 Struggles Against Jacksonville
During the contest, Carlson failed to send the opening kickoff into the landing zone, setting a poor tone early. Later, he missed a crucial extra point in the first half, which eventually cost Las Vegas dearly as the game went to overtime and ended in a one-point defeat.
By contrast, Jaguars kicker Cam Little made headlines with a record-breaking 68-yard field goal to close the first half, emphasizing the difference between the two performances.
Head coach Pete Carroll all but admitted how frustrating this was during his postgame media availability.
Legacy in Question
For a player once seen as the steady foot of the Silver and Black, this downturn marks a possible turning point. The Raiders now face difficult decisions about their kicking game’s future heading into 2026.
Author’s Summary: Daniel Carlson’s decline in 2025 has raised serious questions about his future with the Raiders after years of reliability and fan admiration.