Blow for Smyth as New Orleans set to sign kicker Carlson
The New Orleans Saints are signing veteran kicker Daniel Carlson, creating competition for Charlie Smyth's roster spot. Smyth, an Irish athlete, is now battling for the starting position after a season of mixed results.
Why it matters
The story highlights the competitive nature of the NFL and the challenges faced by international athletes attempting to secure long-term positions in American football.
NFL franchise New Orleans Saints are poised to sign veteran kicker Daniel Carlson, in a blow to Charlie Smyth's bid to remain as the team's starting kicker for the 2026 season.
The Co Down native, who played in each of the Saints' last six games of the 2025 regular season, signed for the franchise in the summer of 2024 having come through the NFL's International Player Pathway Programme.
Although Smyth's 'IPP status' means he is more likely to be retained, he is in a three-way battle for a starting role alongside Carlson and Tanner Brown.
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