Minnesota Vikings: Top options to replace Daniel Carlson at kicker

After Daniel Carlson’s pitiful performance in the Minnesota Vikings’ Week 2 tie, it’s time to take a look at the top potential replacements for the rookie kicker.

We’re only two games into the 2018 NFL season, and the Minnesota Vikings already need a new kicker. Following a miserable performance from rookie Daniel Carlson that cost the Vikings a win against the Green Bay Packers, it’s clear that he needs to be sent packing.

So who are the top free agents out there who can replace Carlson as the starting kicker? As luck would have it, the Vikings should have their pick of several capable, experienced options who are far more likely to connect on a 35-yard attempt to win the game in overtime.

At this point, though, anything would be better than the 2018 fifth-round pick. After beating out veteran Kai Forbath for the starting job early during the preseason, the Auburn product has tanked as the Vikings’ go-to kicker. Sure, he hit his one and only attempt in Minnesota’s season opener. Three misses against the Packers (including two in overtime), however, is unacceptable.

That’s why general manager Rick Spielman needs to be working the phones right now.

To answer the question of who he should be calling, I’ve put together this short list of the top options available for the Vikings. Each would be an upgrade over Carlson, although it’s obvious which one would be the best suited to step in for the bumbling rookie.