Charlie Smyth: From Mayobridge to New Orleans Saints kicker

New Orleans Saints kicker Charlie Smyth says he no longer feels like a rookie as he heads into his third NFL pre-season camp, though he acknowledges he is still at the start of his professional journey. The County Down native replaced Blake Grupe in week 13 of last season against the Miami Dolphins. Smyth signed a three-year contract with the Saints the following month, converting 12 of 16 field goal attempts and all 13 extra-point attempts across the final six games of the season. Smyth, who entered the league via the International Player Pathway, noted that he now has game experience to rely on, adding that he feels more comfortable and familiar with the environment. He credited his long-term collaboration with the special teams coordinator and established professional relationships for providing a strong support system. Smyth’s growing profile remains a surreal experience; he noted his inclusion in fantasy football discussions and his appearance in the Madden video game series. After kicking five field goals against the New York Jets, he received messages noting his fantasy points had outperformed stars like Josh Allen and Travis Kelce. Seeing himself in Madden was described by Smyth as "crazy," given he played the game as a teenager, but he remains focused on being a player rather than a fan. During the off-season, Smyth met Irish golfer and Open champion Shane Lowry at the Zurich Classic in New Orleans. The pair discussed the technical similarities between American football kicking and golf, including weight transfer, ball contact, and pre-shot mentality. Smyth faces fresh competition this year as the Saints have added Tanner Brown, a UFL champion with the St. Louis Battlehawks, to the roster. Smyth stated that competition is part of the profession and should not be taken personally, emphasising that his focus remains on delivering his best performance in training and games.