Smyth signs new three-year deal with Saints

Kicker Charlie Smyth has been named to the side’s full 53-man roster for the first time under a new three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints.

After three practice squad elevations already this season, NFL rules mandate that the 24-year-old from County Down in Northern Ireland be added to the 53-man roster in order to play again against the New York Jets this weekend. Smyth kicked a game-winning field goal for the Saints against the Carolina Panthers last week.

Smyth is now scheduled to make his fourth NFL start against the Jets on Sunday at the Superdome (8:00 GMT).

After signing his first contract with the NFL in March 2024, the former Gaelic footballer had made the Saints’ practice squad as part of its international player pathway program.

Blake Grupe, a former Saints free agent, was added to the active roster in November, making his debut. He has since since made his debut with the Indianapolis Colts.

Smyth defeated veteran Cade York to start in the starting lineup, and he scored a 56-yard field goal and converted an onside kick in his Miami Dolphins debut last month.

Prior to his 46-yard home run last week, the former Down goalkeeper made his home debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with six seconds left.