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Come Fan with UsSunday, June 21, 2026

Under the Radar: Ricky Carlson, S/KR, Webber International

Ricky Carlson, is a little guy from Inverness, Florida, where he he has been an amazing as a kick/punt returner over his career. He is not the biggest kid in the world, standing at just 5'10 and weighs in at 180 pounds. Ricky has been known for his great punt returns and big plays on defense. Ricky coming out of Citrus High School in Florida was never really highly recruited but as a returner he could earn his way on an NFL Roster, check out the clip.

Ricky Carlson Highlight (WIU) (via deesewg)

Ricky took the time out of his busy training to do an interview with us here at Mocking The Draft, so if you want to find out about another small school guy from the NAIA, click to read his interview.

What was your most memorable moment coming out of Citrus High School, in Florida?

My most memorable moment from Citrus High School was during my Junior year playing our rival Crystal River High In front of a full house filled with friends and family. During the 3rd quarter of a very close game I was playing outside linebacker and had a key diving one handed interception. We went on to win by 1.

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

Brevard university and Bacone College were the Two Main schools recruiting me out of high school.

Why did you choose Bacone College over the other programs?

I signed with Bacone College in Oklahoma out of high school and transferred to Webber International University after my freshman season. Due to my only grandfather left who had stage four lung cancer. My strong family values and faith led me to this decision.

What was your most memorable moment at the Webber International?

My most memorable moment at Webber International University was receiving the honor of 2011 BSN All American.

Who was the toughest player you ever played up against?

The toughest player I have competed against was Jeff Demps. I believe he is one of the fastest running backs I have encountered.

What was the most traumatic thing that has ever happened in your life? How did you overcome it?

The most traumatic thing that has happened in my life is the death of my grandfather. After two hard years of battling chemo and radiation, he was in remissions and things were improving. The day after thanksgiving he went in for a routine check up and was emitted into ICU because of complications which resulted in finding that his tumor had spread throughout his body. It was the longest five days of my life watching him go from reminiscing at the dinner table to being hooked up to life support in one day. I dealt with this heartbreaking tragedy by keeping my faith, and staying strong for my father and grandmother. I reminded myself of the good times we had and how he would want me to keep focused and fulfill my goals.

If you could take back one day in your life and relive it, What day would it be and why?

The one day I would take back in my life is walking across the stage and receiving my high school diploma. As one of my biggest accomplishments all my hard work was paying off and I was on the right track to fulfill my life goals.

What was your favorite NFL team growing up?

My favorite NFL team growing up was the Atlanta Falcons.

Who in the NFL would say, your game is most like and why?

I believe Jim Leonhard is the player I am most like because not only does he play safety but also returns kicks.

If you could meet one person dead or alive, who would it be and why?

If I had the opportunity to meet one person it would be Tim Tebow. Tim Tebow displays good character through his beliefs, determination, hard work, and community involvement. He is one person I have always looked up to.

If it was your last meal on earth, what would it be?

My last meal on earth would defiantly be anything my dad cooks.

Have you been hearing where NFL teams have you projected in the draft?

I have not heard about my draft position but strive each and every day to prove that I can play at that level.

What NFL teams talked with you this year?

Currently I have not talked to any NFL teams but with the help of Mr. Bek, my manager,, my play and daily workouts i hope to catch the eye of a scout.

When you talk with NFL teams, what do you tell them you will bring to their team?

When I have the opportunity to talk to an NFL scout I will tell them that my character, drive, and willingness to succeed not only on the field but in the community will be a huge asset to their team.

As a kick returner, how do you break down game film?

Breaking down game film is a key role to enhance players skills. As a returner I break down game film by observing the pros and cons of my play. I reflect upon improving the cons and learning from my mistakes.

Fill in the blank, In ten years from now, I will be ________________________?

Running my own law firm and helping coach my communities youth football programs.

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