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Charlie Smyth Faces Crucial Test in Saints Kicker Duel
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Charlie Smyth, the New Orleans Saints kicker and former Down goalkeeper, is entering a pivotal period as he fights to maintain his position on the team. Despite signing a three-year contract worth $2.9 million last December, Smyth’s place is under threat from newcomer Tanner Brown.
Contract and Performance
Smyth joined the Saints’ active roster after the departure of Blake Grupe, who moved to the Indianapolis Colts. During his debut season, Smyth made a notable impact by converting 12 out of 16 field goal attempts and maintaining a flawless record for extra point conversions. His efforts included a match-winning field goal against the Carolina Panthers and tying the franchise record with five field goals in a game against the New York Jets.
However, the Saints concluded the season with a 6-11 record, missing out on the playoffs. Now, Smyth must prove himself once more as the team has brought in Tanner Brown, a standout performer from the Louisville Kings in the UFL.
Pre-Season Challenges
The competition between Smyth and Brown is heating up as the Saints prepare for the upcoming season. In a recent pre-season game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Smyth successfully converted two extra points but missed a 52-yard field goal attempt. In contrast, Brown was successful with both his attempts from 29 and 49 yards.
The Saints are set to face the LA Rams at the SoFi Stadium, followed by a match against the Dallas Cowboys. These games will be crucial for Smyth as he aims to secure his spot as the team’s primary kicker before the regular season opener against the Detroit Lions.
Despite his contract, none of it is guaranteed, meaning Smyth could be relegated to the practice squad or transferred if Brown is chosen as the first-choice kicker. Smyth’s performance in the remaining pre-season fixtures will be vital in determining his future with the Saints.
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