New Orleans Saints kicker Charlie Smyth spoke with the media after a training camp practice on Thursday, where he discussed a minor thumb injury he suffered while camping and how the situation will not get in the way of his duties amid a highly anticipated position battle.
Although the injury may be an annoyance, Smyth joked about how he is “the only player on the team who doesn’t need my hands.” The Irishman took over full-time kicking responsibilities for New Orleans in the last six games of 2025,
during which he converted 12-16 FGA for 75% accuracy.
Even with experience on the roster, the Saints brought in former UFL kicker Tanner Brown to compete for the starting gig and challenge Smyth to improve. Brown gained notoriety in the spring football league for his powerful leg, and New Orleans is hoping that could translate to the NFL, where distance is becoming an increasingly important X-factor for special teams.
Even though Smyth’s injured thumb should not affect his leg swing, it’s certainly something to keep an eye on as this training camp battle trudges on. Smyth reportedly went 5-5 in Day 1 of practice on July 29.
