Smyth handed sensational Saints return

Charlie Smyth during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis ©INPHO/USA TODAY Sports/Kirby Lee

Down native Charlie Smyth has been handed another opportunity in the NFL after being confirmed as the New Orleans Saints' kicker for Sunday's clash with the Cleveland Browns.

The Mayobridge man will return to the starting line-up after the Saints released veteran kicker Daniel Carlson following an inconsistent spell.

Smyth had been retained on the practice squad after losing out on the kicking duties during pre-season, but head coach Kellen Moore confirmed on Wednesday that the 24-year-old would be back in action.

Smyth previously made six appearances for the Saints last season, producing some memorable performances, including a 47-yard game-winning field goal against the Carolina Panthers.

Before making the move to American football, Smyth had previously been goalkeeper on the Down team that won the Ulster U20 football championship in 2021, defeating Monaghan after extra time in the final.

He has since become one of the most prominent GAA exports to the NFL and will now get another chance to establish himself in the Saints’ starting line-up.