Football focus benefits Carlson
The legend of Katy Taylor High School's Nico Carlson continues. Carlson moved in from Virginia late last season and was unable to play varsity football in 2008.
He ended up winning the state heavyweight wrestling title for the state of Texas, however, going 49-0 and his legend began to grow.
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"Winning state in wrestling was the high point of my life," he said. "I never thought I would move here and do what I did. When I won, I was just overwhelmed. It really helped my confidence."
While his wrestling career reached an apex, his football world suffered a blow. He injured his knee and was out for much of spring football.
"I was really disappointed about missing some time, but I was able to get back for the spring game," he said. "I'm ready to go and get the season started to show people what I can do."
He has hit the camp circuit this summer, attending Rice and Baylor over the past week. He will attend UTEP's one-day camp in Houston, Texas A&M's camp July 12th and LSU's July 18th.
"Rice offered me last weekend and I am happy to have my first," he said. "I feel like UTEP will offer also."
The 6-foot-3 defensive lineman is learning from the camp instruction and will be applying his findings to the 2009 season.
"I'm really working on lowering my pad level and using my hands," he said. "Coaches are showing me how to open my hips when rushing the passer. I'm trying to use all of this to make me more of a versatile defender. I have the physical part down, now I'm working on technique."