Charlie Smith: Kicker signs new three-year contract with New Orleans Saints

Kicker Charlie Smith signed a new three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints and was promoted to the team’s full 53-man roster for the first time.

Smith kicked a game-winning field goal for the Saints against the Carolina Panthers last week, and after three promotions to the practice squad already this season, NFL rules stipulate that the 24-year-old from County Down in Northern Ireland needs to sign to the 53-man roster in order to make another appearance against the New York Jets this weekend.

Smith is now set to make his fourth consecutive NFL start against the Jets in the Superdome on Sunday (18:00 GMT).

The former Gaelic footballer was a member of the Saints training squad as part of the AFL’s International Player Pathway Program after signing his first contract in March 2024.

He was elevated to the active roster for the first time in November, replacing former kicker Blake Grubb, who was waived by the Saints and has since joined the Indianapolis Colts.

Smith beat out veteran Cade York for the starting role, and in his NFL debut against the Miami Dolphins last month, he kicked a 56-yard field goal and made an onside kick.

The former Downs goaltender also appeared in the win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before hitting a 46-yarder six seconds before his home debut last week.

Over his three games, Smith has made nine of his 10 kick attempts.