Charlie Smyth settles into NFL starter role with New Orleans Saints
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 7:08 AM
Last updated Aug 10, 2026
Charlie Smyth enters his first NFL pre-season as the starting kicker for the New Orleans Saints. After replacing Blake Grupe last November, Smyth completed 12 of 16 field goals and made all 13 extra-point attempts. He expresses confidence gained from experience and is focused on performing amidst competition from new signing Tanner Brown. Off the field, Smyth reflects on his NFL journey, including interactions with golfer Shane Lowry, emphasizing parallels between kicking and golf.
- •Smyth played in the final six games of last season, earning a three-year contract.
- •He experienced the excitement of being featured in fantasy football discussions and the Madden video game.
- •Smyth worked with Shane Lowry, discussing similarities in kicking and golf techniques.
- •The Saints signed Tanner Brown, intensifying competition for the kicker position this summer.
- •Smyth emphasizes the importance of focusing on performance, not on outside perceptions.
- 7:08 AMYahoo Sports — Mayobridge to Madden – Smyth enjoying next level in NFL
- 7:08 AMBBC Sport — Mayobridge to Madden – Smyth enjoying next level in NFL
"As he enters his first pre-season as an NFL starter, County Down's Charlie Smyth says he is getting used to being a player rather than fan of the sport.
"As he enters his first pre-season as an NFL starter, County Down's Charlie Smyth says he is getting used to being a player rather than fan of the sport.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 10, 2026, 7:08 AMMayobridge to Madden – Smyth enjoying next level in NFL
As he enters his first pre-season as an NFL starter, County Down's Charlie Smyth says he is getting used to being a player rather than fan of the sport.
- BBC SportAug 10, 2026, 7:08 AMMayobridge to Madden – Smyth enjoying next level in NFL
As he enters his first pre-season as an NFL starter, County Down's Charlie Smyth says he is getting used to being a player rather than fan of the sport.
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