Carl Lawson Bio
Carl Lawson is an American professional football linebacker who was born on June 29, 1995, in Alpharetta, Georgia. He attended Milton High School, where he excelled in football, leading to his five-star recruitment. Lawson played college football for the Auburn Tigers and was a key player during his time there, earning accolades like First-team All-American. After being drafted in 2017 by the Cincinnati Bengals, Lawson has played for several NFL teams, including the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys, showcasing his strong skills as a linebacker.
Early Life and Background
Carl Lawson grew up in Alpharetta, Georgia, where he attended Milton High School. During his high school career, he made a significant impact on the football field, recording impressive statistics that included 87 tackles and 15 sacks as a junior and 78 tackles and 27 sacks in his senior year. His performance earned him recognition as a consensus five-star recruit, placing him among the top recruits in his class. Lawson committed to Auburn University to further his football career, where he continued to develop his skills and gain valuable experience.
Path to American Football
Lawson’s journey to professional football began at Auburn, where he played for the Auburn Tigers from 2013 to 2016. In his freshman year, he made an immediate impact with 20 tackles and four sacks. However, his sophomore season was cut short due to a torn ACL, which sidelined him for the entire year. Despite facing injuries during his junior season, Lawson showcased his talent and determination, recording 17 tackles and one sack in just seven games. His college career culminated in numerous accolades, including First-team All-American and First-team All-SEC honors in 2016, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the NFL draft.
Carl Lawson Career
Early Career (2017-2020)
Carl Lawson was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL draft, being the 116th overall pick. He made an immediate impact in his rookie season, playing in all 16 games and starting one, where he recorded 16 tackles and 8.5 sacks. His performance earned him a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team, making him the top rookie in sacks that year. In 2018, Lawson’s season was cut short due to a torn ACL, which he suffered in Week 8. He was placed on injured reserve, ending his season prematurely.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
After recovering from his injury, Lawson signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the New York Jets on March 18, 2021. Unfortunately, during a joint practice with the Green Bay Packers in August 2021, he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, which ended his season before it began. Despite this setback, Lawson continued to work hard and returned to the field. In 2024, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he was initially released but later re-signed to the practice squad and promoted to the active roster.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Carl Lawson has established himself as a formidable linebacker, known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and make key tackles. His accolades, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and earning First-team All-American honors, highlight his talent and contributions to the teams he has played for.
Carl Lawson Award Nominations
Over the course of his career, Carl Lawson has received several notable nominations, particularly during his time in college and his early professional career. His recognition as a top rookie in the NFL and his collegiate accolades reflect his skill and potential as a player.
Carl Lawson Awards Won
Carl Lawson has achieved significant recognition in his football career, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2017 and receiving First-team All-American and First-team All-SEC honors in 2016. These awards underscore his impact on the field and his contributions to his teams.
Carl Lawson Family
Information regarding Carl Lawson’s family is limited. However, it is known that he has a grand-uncle, Carl Lawson, who represented Jamaica as a sprinter in the 1972 Summer Olympics.
Personal Life
Carl Lawson has been in a relationship with Olympic discus thrower Rachel Dincoff, whom he met while attending Auburn University. Their relationship highlights his connection to the world of athletics beyond football.