Charlie Smyth has secured a second NFL start for the New Orleans Saints against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend in the second part of a Florida doubleheader for NOLA.
The former Down goalkeeper impressed head coach Kellen Moore against the Miami Dolphins last time out, nailing a 56-yard field goal and retaining the first onside kick of the season for the Saints.
Smyth’s debut has been received with plaudits from both sides of the Atlantic, especially in his hometown of Mayobridge, which saw scenes of pandemonium when his kick went between the posts.
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Charlie Smyth’s grandparents, uncles and family watch the Mayobridge man kick his first FG in a regular season NFL game in Mayobridge, County Down.
This is what the growth of the NFL is all about. pic.twitter.com/JGLf60Kdbd
— Michael McQuaid (@McQuaidNFL) November 30, 2025
Smyth has competed with professional veteran Cade York, who is a former college player for Louisiana State University, the local college team for the Saints, since starting kicker Blake Grupe was released.
The former St Mary’s player secured a two-year deal with the Saints after impressing during the NFL International Player Pathway combine, but has had to hone his craft in the practice squad up until now.
The Saints, who are currently on two wins and ten losses this season, are hoping to salvage some pride in the remaining games this season, but are up against a tough Tampa Bay team, who are currently hoping to secure a place in the play-offs in January.