Kicker Charlie Smyth Signs 3-Year Deal With New Orleans Saints
Kicker Charlie Smyth signs a three-year contract and earns a spot on the Saints' 53-man roster after a string of clutch kicks.
American football kicker Charlie Smyth has sealed a three-year deal with the New Orleans Saints, earning a place on the club's 53-man active roster for the first time.
The 24-year-old from County Down, Northern Ireland, has impressed with late-game accuracy and comes through the NFL's international pathways program.
Roster move and what it means
Saints officials announced Smyth's three-year agreement and his promotion to the full active roster, a necessary step for him to take part in Sunday’s game against the New York Jets at the Superdome (kickoff listed as 6:00 p.m. local time/18:00 GMT).
Under NFL rules, a player elevated from the practice squad several times in a season must be signed to the 53-man roster to remain eligible for game duties. This move ends the cycle of practice-squad elevations for Smyth and secures his spot on game day.
From pathway to starter
The former County Down Gaelic football goalkeeper joined the Saints through the NFL's international player pathway after signing his first contract in March 2024. He was promoted to the active roster in November, taking over from veteran Blake Grupe, who was waived and later joined the Indianapolis Colts.
Smyth beat out Cade York for the kicking role, and in his NFL debut against the Miami Dolphins he connected on a 56-yard field goal and recovered an onside kick in the same game.
He also featured in the victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before nailing a 46-yard field goal with six seconds left in his home debut last week, contributing to his rising role.
Through three appearances, Smyth has converted nine of 10 attempts, underscoring his accuracy and versatility on kickoffs and onside plays.
Expert analysis
Expert note: A well-placed, consistent leg and growing confidence under pressure have helped Smyth earn trust in New Orleans. Analysts say his trajectory could make him a dependable long-range option for the Saints.
Summary
Charlie Smyth's three-year deal marks a significant step in his NFL journey from an international pathway player to a regular roster member. His accuracy on long kicks and ability to handle specialty duties have earned the Saints' confidence. The team will likely rely on his leg in close games and critical moments.
Key takeaway: Smyth's rapid ascent demonstrates how the NFL's international pathways can deliver credible specialists who impact games in key moments.
BBC Sport
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