With the New Orleans Saints, Charlie Smyth became the first player in NFL history with a spelling-defying debut. He even connected on a 56-yard field goal too! It was a chance to witness his unmatched artistry. Beyond honoring an incredible life cut short, it provided his family and friends an opportunity to rejoice in this meaningful step in his football journey. In a surprising twist, Smyth’s family members, including his father Leo and several aunts and uncles, managed to attend the game, providing him with an emotional support system during this pivotal moment.
Smyth’s path to the NFL has been an unusual one. He wowed NFL coaches at the NFL scouting combine and during the 2024 International Player Pathway (IPP) pro day. Healy went on to make the Saints’ practice squad. As the last two seasons have shown, he’s refined that game down in New Orleans. By December 2023, his persistence and dedication resulted in Paul being accepted into the IPP program. This opportunity gave him the chance to demonstrate his talents on a bigger stage, Independence Day-like stardom, and net him his recent promotion.
With training camp just weeks away, Smyth found himself in a heated competition for the starting kicker spot. He went toe-to-toe with impressive Cade York and long-time NFL staple Justin Tucker. In the end, he won out, cementing himself as an indispensable member of the club. And yet none of that is why his leg strength consistently sets him apart from the other kickers. Which enables him to cover ground that other defenders in the NBA simply can’t touch.
“Most kickers need to get to the 35-yard line to be in field goal range, but I know the Saints were backing it up to the mid-40s,” – Leader
During training camp at Tulane University, Smyth showcased his powerful leg by nailing a 65-yard field goal. This performance was a showcase of his upside and preparedness to take on the NFL’s obstacles.
It was something that Smyth hadn’t had a lot of focus on in high school or in college. This year—especially with the Saints—he really committed to working on the craft. His effort paid off when he executed an onside kick in the game, leading to a successful recovery by Devaughn Vele.
“It’s only now we understand how passionate he is about it and how hard he has worked to get to where he is today,” – Leo Smyth
The family’s unexpected presence at the game turned an already special moment into an unforgettable experience for Smyth. He used to dream of playing in the NFL and had heroes like Justin Tucker that he watched every Sunday. These experiences only intensified his drive to make it to the top rungs of pro football.
To get ready for this highly-anticipated debut, competition and pressure have been keys to Smyth’s development, according to Saints coaches.
“I wanted to see Charlie with some competition and a little bit of pressure on him, with some other guys that have kicked in this league,” – Galiano
This approach has proven effective. This past training session was not the first time coaches had been blown away by Smyth’s performance.
“The difference now to then [April 2024] is like the difference between red and blue, to be honest with you,” – Galiano
His first game dominating on the field only further entrenched his position. He highlighted extraordinary technical ability, while reflecting incredible mental toughness to excel in high stakes moments.
“He did a really good job just coming in,” – Shough
To mark the occasion, Northern Ireland picked up free drinks in their district pubs. He accomplished not only bringing a name for himself in professional football, but pride to his independent home country as well. His success story of determination, hard work and talent is an inspiration for aspiring athletes all over the world.
“That kick would have been good from 65-67 odd yards,” – Leader
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