Brenden Karlson (Waconia, Minn.) has signed a letter of intent to continue his football career at Northwestern College next fall.

Karlson is a 6'4", 220-pound tight end / defensive end who had a stellar three-year career playing for Waconia High School. Karlson caused havoc on opposing defenses, totaling 26 tackles, 3.5 quarterback sacks and two forced fumbles in five games played his senior year. He was an all-district pick and earned the Wildcat Award for the player who best exemplifies the program. Karson helped lead his team to the state playoffs and finish with a 9-2 record. A member of the National Honor Society, Karlson plans to major in Business / Finance at Northwestern.

"We are excited to have Brenden join our team," said Northwestern Head Coach Matt McCarty. "He was an absolute force on defense, making plays all over the field, and caused tremendous problems for opposing offenses. We believe Brenden will not only be an impact player along our defensive line but also as a leader on our team and campus."