Despite the solid season by the Minnesota Vikings last season with an unexpected 10-6, the year was disappointing for one player in particular. Tight end John Carlson says his first year with the franchise was a "debacle", according to an interview with the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
Vikings TE John Carlson laments ‘debacle’ of 2012 season
Minnesota is hoping for a better season out of Carlson as it tries to make the playoffs again.
Tim Fuller-US PRESSWIRE
Carlson was virtually non-existent after coming over via free agency from the Seattle Seahawks. The former Notre Dame star missed the entire 2011 campaign but still received a five-year, $25 million deal from Minnesota in hopes of returning to form.
However, Carlson suffered a knee injury in the preseason and never came to the forefront offensively for head coach Leslie Frazier, catching eight passes for the year. Now with quarterback Christian Ponder in his third season and looking to make the leap, Carlson is hoping to step up, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press:
Missing that time in camp wasn't good because they didn't get a feel for what I'm capable of doing. And I didn't get a feel for the offense and the way Christian (Ponder) throws the ball, and how to run-block. It was a debacle. I'm thankful to be out here and be healthy and have another opportunity.
After losing Percy Harvin in the offseason, the Vikings could use Carlson this season to help soften the blow to the offense and further Ponder’s progression.
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