CHARLIE Smyth has signed a deal with NFL side New Orleans Saints, NFL Ireland are reporting.

The Mayobridge man, an u-20 winning goalkeeper with Down, was invited to try out with the Saints this week.

The move came after impressing at an NFL combine in Indianapolis earlier in the month in front of scouts from the 32 franchises.

Saint Smyth: County Down NFL IPP athlete
Charlie Smyth has signed with the New Orleans Saints, per source.

Congratulations to all at Leader Kicking – @TadhgLeader, @DropkickMangan – life changing opportunities & @ProStarSports team! pic.twitter.com/z1rF4IckO3

— Michael McQuaid (@Michael_NFL) March 29, 2024

It was followed up with another impressive display at a ‘pro day’ organised at Florida State University.

Smyth is the one of four Irish hopefuls – including Monaghan goalkeeper Rory Beggan – who  were part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program.

Darragh Leader, a former rugby player with Connacht, and Wicklow goalkeeper Mark Jackson were also part of the programme.

Mark Hogan, of NFL Ireland, explains what exactly today’s news means for Charlie Smyth.

WHAT IT MEANS 👇 pic.twitter.com/W3X8R53z0A

— Mark Hogan (@HoganNFL) March 29, 2024