The New Orleans Saints are diversifying their roster by signing Charlie Smyth, a placekicker from Northern Ireland, making him the first Irishman to join an NFL team through the International Player Pathway program. Smyth, previously known for his role as a goalkeeper for Down GAA, has inked a deal with the Saints, as confirmed by his agent Paul Sheehy on social media.
Smyth’s journey to the NFL included attending the NFL Scouting Combine and visiting the Saints’ training facility, where he showcased his skills. At South Florida’s pro day, he impressed scouts by connecting on a 60-yard field goal attempt. During the combine, Smyth displayed proficiency by making 12 out of 16 attempts.
Although Smyth is relatively new to American football, having started kicking an NFL football only since August, his transition seems promising. Notably, his background in soccer appears to be advantageous, as evidenced by his ability to nail a 63-yard kick.
Upon joining the Saints, Smyth will compete with Blake Grupe, who served as the team’s placekicker in 2023 after joining as an undrafted free agent from Notre Dame. Grupe had a solid season, converting 81.1% of his field goal attempts, including six of nine from 50-plus yards, and making all 40 extra-point attempts.
Since Smyth enters the Saints through the International Player Pathway program, he won’t count against the team’s 90-man roster for training camp, giving him a better opportunity to secure a spot on the team as he continues to develop his skills in the NFL.
