Jeff Carlson (American football)

Jeffrey Allen Carlson (born April 23, 1966) is a former professional American football quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). He played three seasons for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots. He previously had played for Weber State University and Pacifica High School in Garden Grove, California.

Early life
Carlson was born on April 23, 1966, in Long Beach, California. He played quarterback at Pacifica High School in Garden Grove, California. During his senior year, Carlson led Pacifica to the Empire League Championship and was named the leagues most valuable player.

College career
Carlson played college football at Weber State University from 1984 to 1988.

Los Angeles Rams
Carlson was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the fourth round (102nd overall) in the 1989 NFL Draft. He competed to be the backup to Rams starting quarterback Jim Everett.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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.

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. 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 receiver Lawrence Dawsey late in the fourth quarter to prevent a shutout. The Buccaneers went on to lose the game 43-7. 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.

New York Giants
Carlson had a brief stint with the New York Giants.

New England Patriots
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.

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.