After joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1990, Carlson made his NFL debut in a 41-10 blowout loss to the San Diego Chargers. Carlson attempted no passes and fumbled on his lone rushing attempt.[1]
In 1991, he saw more extended playing time. Carlson relieved starting quarterback Chris Chandler during a week 9 matchup against Green Pay Packers. He completed 12-of-32 passes for 164 yards and threw three interceptions in the 27-0 loss.[4] Three weeks later against the Atlanta Falcons, Carlson relieved quarterback Vinny Testeverde. He completed 11-of-15 passes for 164 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. His first career touchdown pass came on a four yard throw to wide receiverLawrence Dawsey late in the fourth quarter to prevent a shutout. The Buccaneers went on to lose the game 43-7.[5] He made his first career start week 16 in a 27–0 loss to the Chicago Bears. Carlson completed only 8-of-18 passes for 76 yards and threw three interceptions.[6]
He joined the New England Patriots midway through the 1992 NFL season. He appeared in three games for the Patriots, including two starts. He completed 18-of-49 passes for 232 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions. He also rushed for 32 yards on 11 attempts.[7]
Denver Broncos
Carlson signed with the Denver Broncos during the 1994 offseason but never played in a regular season game for the team.
He finished his career appearing in seven games with an 0-3 record as a starter. Carlson completed 49-of-114 passes for 636 yards, two touchdowns and nine interceptions. He rushed 17 times for 57 yards and fumbled 5 times.[8]
