New Orleans Saints name Daniel Carlson as starting kicker for upcoming season

The New Orleans Saints designated Daniel Carlson as the team's starting kicker following the conclusion of training camp. Carlson, an eight-year NFL veteran who previously spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and Oakland Raiders, signed with New Orleans late in the camp process. He competed against Charlie Smyth and Tanner Brown to earn the position. The team seeks stability at the kicking spot following the departure of Wil Lutz. Carlson enters the role with a career field goal conversion rate of 86.7 percent. The Saints open their 2026 regular season schedule on the road against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, September 13.

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