Meet Smyth (pronounced Smith), a promising kicker in the NFL. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 210 pounds, he joined the New Orleans Saints as a free agent in 2024 through the International Player Pathway (IPP) program. Hailing from Newry, Northern Ireland, he spent two seasons on the Saints’ practice squad before stepping into his new role in Week 13 against the Miami Dolphins.
In just three games, Smyth has made four out of five field goal attempts, with a stunning 56-yard kick marking his first. This kick is tied for the second-longest first attempt in NFL history. In a thrilling Week 15 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, he nailed a 42-yarder and a game-winning 47-yarder with just two seconds left on the clock. This was a significant moment for New Orleans, as it marked their first game-winning field goal since 2022.
Before his NFL career, Smyth played as a goalkeeper in Gaelic football, showcasing his athleticism. He was selected for the IPP program, which helps exceptional international talent transition into the NFL. Starting Gaelic football at just four years old, Smyth achieved considerable success, winning an Ulster under-20 title and making his senior debut in Ireland’s top inter-county league in 2023. He also holds a master’s degree in physical education from Belfast University.
Notably, Smyth is only the second kicker in NFL history from Ireland via the IPP program, following Jude McAtamney. What’s unique is that he is the first of this group to make it to the NFL without prior college experience in football. The IPP program began in 2017 and aims to elevate skilled international players into professional football, a testament to the NFL’s expanding global reach.
As the NFL continues to grow worldwide, athletes like Smyth are breaking barriers and setting new standards. His journey from Gaelic football to the NFL highlights the increasing opportunities for international players in American sports, a trend reflected in rising viewership and participation from around the globe.
For more on the International Player Pathway program and its impact, you can read the NFL’s official report here.
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