Smyth marks new deal with 17 points in Saints win

Charlie Smyth marked his new three-year agreement by scoring 17 points in the New Orleans Saints’ 29-6 victory over the New York Jets.

The former Gaelic footballer Smyth earned his place on the Saints’ 53-man roster along with the new contract, thanks to his decisive kick against the Carolina Panthers.

At 24 years old, Smyth faced the option of being either permanently added to the roster or let go, having been elevated from the practice squad previously on three occasions.

Smyth delivered his most impressive performance yet in the NFL during Sunday’s win over the Jets, successfully kicking five field goals and converting two extra point attempts.

«I must give immense praise to the offense and defense today. We are beginning to play some truly complementary football here,» Smyth expressed following the victory.

«The backing from everyone in New Orleans has been incredible. This team has remained united, and that is why the victories have been coming.»

In his four NFL games so far, the Saints have achieved victory three times, with Smyth recording a successful onside kick—previously having a mere 7% success rate—a match-winning kick, and scoring 17 points in one game.

Smyth got his first points with a 35-yard field goal and continued with attempts from 49 and 36 yards.

He was unsuccessful on a 60-yard attempt just before half-time while the Saints were leading 9-6 but responded immediately with a successful 50-yard field goal.

His fifth field goal, from 39 yards, equaled the franchise record for the Saints, and he also successfully kicked two PATs as the home team triumphed comfortably.

Smyth’s total is tied for the third most points scored this season, behind 18 from Jason Myers of the Seattle Seahawks and 20 by Evan McPherson of the Cincinnati Bengals, achieved against the Baltimore Ravens.

His five successful field goals is the second-highest number made in a single NFL game this season, following Myers’ six against the Indianapolis Colts during the previous game week.

The New Orleans Saints will conclude their regular season with games against the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons.