Stephen Carlson

BIOGRAPHY

Stephen Carlson is a well-established, American professional football player, known for his impressive role as a tight end. Born on December 12, 1996, this young professional has managed to build a promising career in the National Football League (NFL), playing for the prominent team: The Chicago Bears.

His love for football began early on, and his talent started to shine through during his college years when he played football at the renowned Princeton University. Despite having a strong college football career, Carlson went undrafted for the National Football League (NFL) 2019 draft. This setback, however, did not deter his determination and ambition to pursue a professional career in football.

In May 2019, Carlson’s never-give-up attitude resulted in a tremendous career surge when he signed with the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent. Unfortunately, the initial start of his journey with the Browns did not go smoothly. He was waived during final roster cuts but was able to subsequently sign again to the Browns’ practice squad.

His big break came on November 1, 2019, when the Browns signed Carlson to their active roster. Two weeks later, on November 14, 2019, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he made a memorable mark by making his first NFL catch, which was a touchdown reception from Baker Mayfield, contributing to a 21–7 victory over the Steelers.

His star continued to rise, with a notable moment in the Browns’ match against the Dallas Cowboys on October 4, 2020. Carlson proved his skill and speed when he ran down a blocked kick that the Cowboys had failed to secure, resulting in a two-point conversion.

In March 2021, the Browns presented Carlson with an exclusive-rights free agent tender, which he signed by mid-April. His time with the Browns was punctuated by a setback when he was placed on injured reserve in August 2021 due to injury.

Later, in the spring of 2023, Carlson’s professional journey took a turn. After a rookie minicamp workout, Carlson signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears on May 6. However, his time with the Bears began rocky, as he was waived in late August of the same year, but he was able to re-sign with the practice squad.

Entering the New Year on January 8, 2024, he signed a reserve/future contract. Things took a downward spiral again later that year, being waived once more in late August. However, Carlson resiliently bounced back, getting re-signed back to the practice squad and eventually promoted to the active roster on September 24, 2024.

All through his career, Stephen Carlson has exemplified a can-do attitude, resilience, and a solid work ethic, turning setbacks into setups for prominent comebacks. His journey remains a testament to what can be achieved with persistence, hard work, and an unyielding passion for one’s profession.