08/25/2026
🏈SECOND CHANCE, STRONG LEG: DONNIE CARONA'S CLUTCH COMEBACK🏈
Donnie Carona’s journey wasn’t perfect—but it was powerful.
The Kelly High School standout turned Texas Tech kicker carved out a career defined by resilience and results. After an up-and-down start early in his college career, Carona seized his moment in 2011 and delivered one of the most consistent seasons by a kicker in Red Raiders history.
He finished the year 14-of-18 on field goals and a perfect 50-of-50 on PATs, leading Texas Tech with 92 total points. His accuracy ranked among the Big 12’s best—77.8% on field goals—while his 7-of-8 mark from 40-49 yards proved he had both range and reliability.
Carona’s signature performance came against Texas A&M, where he drilled four field goals, tying a school record. Over the season, he added 72 kickoffs for 4,685 yards, showcasing a powerful leg that consistently flipped field position.
For his career, Carona etched his name into the Texas Tech record books—ranking 8th all-time in PATs (83) and among the top 10 in single-season field goals and extra points.
And it all started in Beaumont.
At Kelly High School, Carona was a do-it-all standout—earning All-State honors, rushing for 792 yards and nine touchdowns, while also excelling as a kicker and punter. He was even ranked among the top kicking prospects in the nation.
His path wasn’t easy. After losing the starting job earlier in his career, Carona stayed ready—and when his second chance came, he delivered.
From Beaumont to the Big 12 spotlight, Donnie Carona proved one thing:
Sometimes, the comeback is the story.
Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School
