Carlson played linebacker during college at Concordia University Chicago, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education.
He then moved to Franklin College for the 1984 season and Grand Valley State University from 1985 to 1987, serving in the same role as offensive line coach.
He spent three seasons with Lakeland, before taking the head coach position at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana.
[2] Carlson was named the 16th head football coach in at Valparaiso University until his firing near the end of 2013 season.
[3] Following the stint with Valparaiso, Carlson returned to his native Chicago, Illinois, to serve as the assistant head coach at North Park University.