DEAL DONE: NFL News: Saints have re-signed Charlie Smyth as the backup kicker… But NFL Ireland’s Michael McQuaid first reported that Charlie Smyth was the first of the team’s pending free agents to put pen to paper on a new deal. It’s a two-year contract following……full Details…

In a move that has been welcomed by both the New Orleans Saints and their fans, the team has officially re-signed Charlie Smyth as their backup kicker on a two-year contract. The deal, which was first reported by NFL Ireland’s Michael McQuaid, ensures that Smyth will remain with the Saints organization, providing depth and reliability at the kicker position as the team heads into the upcoming season.

This signing is especially significant as Charlie Smyth becomes the first of the Saints’ pending free agents to put pen to paper on a new deal. The news marks the continuation of a trend for the Saints, who are focused on solidifying their special teams unit heading into a critical year of competition. With several key roster decisions still to be made, securing Smyth’s services early on gives the Saints a clear and stable option behind their starting kicker.

Charlie Smyth’s Journey with the Saints

Since joining the New Orleans Saints in 2022, Charlie Smyth has quickly become a key part of the team’s special teams unit. Although he hasn’t been called upon to perform in games as much as the starting kicker, his consistency and professionalism in practice have made him a reliable option for the Saints. His ability to step in at a moment’s notice, should the team require his services, has earned him the respect of the coaching staff and teammates alike.

In 2023, Smyth was called into action on several occasions due to injuries within the special teams unit, and while he didn’t get the same visibility as some of the top kickers in the league, his performances were solid. Smyth demonstrated his strong leg, consistency on field goals, and the poise required to succeed at the NFL level.

“I’m really excited to be staying with the Saints for another two years,” Smyth said in a statement after the signing. “New Orleans has felt like home from day one, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the team in any way I can. It’s a great organization, and I’m eager to help this team win whenever called upon.”

The Importance of Depth at Kicker

While the Saints have a well-established starting kicker in Wil Lutz, having a reliable backup is crucial, especially considering the volatility that sometimes comes with the kicking game. Injuries or slumps can sideline even the most reliable kickers, and having someone like Smyth — who is well-versed in the team’s system and has proven himself in practice — provides valuable peace of mind.

Over the past few seasons, backup kickers have become more integral to NFL teams’ rosters, and Smyth’s signing is part of a broader strategy to maintain balance and depth in every position, including special teams. By retaining Smyth, the Saints are not only ensuring consistency in their kicker situation but also providing the flexibility to make adjustments if necessary throughout the season.

A Unique Opportunity for Smyth

For Charlie Smyth, this contract extension represents a unique opportunity to prove himself further at the highest level of professional football. While he hasn’t been thrust into starting duties yet, the potential is there for Smyth to earn more significant opportunities, either with the Saints or elsewhere in the league, should his number be called.

The Saints’ coaching staff, led by Dennis Allen, has been vocal about the importance of special teams in their overall game plan. Whether it’s field goals, extra points, or kickoffs, every special teams play can make the difference in close games. As the backup kicker, Smyth understands the importance of staying ready and prepared for any situation. His commitment to his craft, work ethic, and willingness to perform when called upon are qualities that have made him an asset to the team.

“Charlie has been a solid backup for us and a reliable presence in the locker room,” said Dennis Allen, the Saints’ head coach. “Special teams are critical to winning games, and we know we can trust Charlie when needed. We’re happy to have him back for another two years.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Saints’ Special Teams

The re-signing of Charlie Smyth represents just one piece of the puzzle for the New Orleans Saints as they continue to build a complete team capable of competing for a Super Bowl in the coming seasons. Special teams play will remain a vital aspect of the team’s success, and Smyth’s role as a backup kicker provides depth that could pay dividends should the Saints face any adversity at the kicker position.

With Wil Lutz continuing to be the Saints’ starting kicker, Smyth’s contributions are likely to come primarily in a backup capacity, providing insurance should the team need to make a midseason adjustment or should Lutz face any injury setbacks. However, should the situation arise, Smyth is ready to step into the role of starting kicker, just as many other backup kickers have had to do across the NFL.

Additionally, the Saints’ special teams coordinator, Darren Rizzi, will continue to emphasize the importance of special teams’ consistency throughout the season. In a league where every point counts and field position is often a game-changer, ensuring the Saints’ kicker situation remains strong will be crucial to their overall success.

What’s Next for the Saints’ Roster Decisions

While the signing of Charlie Smyth is a positive step in the right direction for the Saints, it’s just the beginning of what promises to be an eventful offseason. With key roster decisions still to be made — including potential extensions for players like Michael Thomas, Alvin Kamara, and Derek Carr — the Saints’ front office will be looking to build a well-rounded team that can contend for the NFC South and beyond.

For now, though, the re-signing of Smyth ensures that the Saints have one less concern as they look toward the 2024 season. With a reliable backup kicker on the roster, the team can focus on the more high-profile areas of their roster while maintaining a sense of stability in special teams.

Conclusion: Stability and Depth for the Saints

The re-signing of Charlie Smyth to a two-year contract is a smart, practical decision by the New Orleans Saints that provides stability at the kicker position. While not a headline-grabbing move, Smyth’s consistency and reliability make him an important asset to the team’s roster. As the first of the Saints’ free agents to re-sign, Smyth has set the tone for the offseason, and his presence ensures that the team is well-equipped for any situation that might arise on special teams.

As the Saints continue to build for the 2024 season, fans can rest assured knowing that their special teams unit is in capable hands. Whether it’s through game-winning field goals or simple consistency on extra points, Charlie Smyth’s contributions will be an integral part of the team’s push for the playoffs and beyond.