Charlie Smyth, the New Orleans Saints’ new kicker, was signed to a three-year contract. Smyth, a native of Ireland, is a member of the NFL’s overseas Pathway Program, which is a league initiative to provide overseas players with a path to the NFL. Smith has been training at IMG Academy with other program members since January, and he now has a chance in the NFL.
While he is fresh to the league and American football, Smyth is no stranger to producing spectacular kicks. Prior to signing with the Saints, a video of Smyth making a 63-yard punt with an outstanding hook to negate the very windy conditions became popular. It’s easy to understand why New Orleans signed Smyth. However, because the Saints’ home games are held in the Superdome, he will not always have to deal with the elements.
Saints sign Charlie Smyth through the International Pathway Program.
Smyth, 22 years old, stands 6-foot-4, weighs 210 pounds, and has been an athlete his entire life. He has been playing Gaelic football since he was four years old, most recently as a goalkeeper. Now he’s preparing to enter the NFL, where he hopes to flourish. Smyth understands that in order to accomplish this, he must compete.
The Saints also have Blake Grupe, who recently ended a roller coaster rookie season. He started the year hot, but concluded his rookie season with 30-of-37 field goal attempts, including some crucial misses for New Orleans in close games. As a result, the Saints’ options were expanded.
Charlie Smyth, for example, stated that he did not participate in the International Pathway Program in order to be placed on a practice team. He understands that taking over Blake Grupe’s position will be difficult, but he is not afraid of the competition.
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