The New Orleans Saints are releasing kicker Charlie Smyth, per a source with knowledge of the decision.
The move indicates that newly signed veteran kicker Daniel Carlson has likely won the competition to become the team’s kicker. Former UFL star Tanner Brown was also in the mix for the job this offseason.
Carlson made two field goals in the preseason finale, one from 38 yards and the game-winner from 53 yards out.
Smyth will likely end up back with the team as an International Practice Player. As such, he would not take up one of the team’s 16 practice squad spots thanks to an international player exemption.
Smyth has only been playing American football for about three to four years and has a lot of raw talent. That talent is worth continuing to invest in, especially while the team doesn’t have to surrender a roster spot for it.
New Orleans held a three-way competition for their kicker spot after finishing with the league’s lowest field goal percentage in 2025 of just 71.4%. In looking for opportunities to improve in 2026, going the direction of a proven veteran appears to be on the way for the Saints.
