Just 3 Hours After Being Signed to the 53-Man Roster, Saints Shockingly Finalize Kicker Decision for Week 15 Clash vs Panthers
New Orleans, Louisiana – December 10, 2025
Only three hours after officially signing to the 53-man roster, Charlie Smyth instantly became the most talked-about name in New Orleans. And this afternoon, the Saints locked in their final decision: Smyth will be the starting kicker for the high-stakes Week 15 matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
It marks a major turning point for Smyth — the Irish rookie who spent two pressure-filled weeks elevated from the practice squad. The Saints could have kept him on temporary call-ups, but choosing to sign him outright signals true commitment, especially with the NFC South race tightening by the minute.

Debate had swirled after Smyth’s missed field goal in last week’s rain-soaked battle in Tampa Bay, but the Saints coaching staff remained convinced it did not reflect his real potential.
Head coach Kellen Moore made it clear why the team is standing behind the 24-year-old.
“This is the week for him to bounce back and show his grit,” Moore said firmly. “We’ve watched how he prepares, how he holds up under pressure, and one imperfect moment can’t define an entire career — especially when this team needs someone willing to step forward.”
The decision to roll with Smyth isn’t only about stability — it could help decide the fate of the entire season. The Saints and Panthers both sit at 7–6, and Sunday’s showdown at the Superdome may serve as the defining moment in the NFC South title race.
Smyth has been consistent on PATs, going 6-for-6 across two games, and his lone miss came under brutal weather conditions — circumstances that impacted both teams. With a climate-controlled indoor environment this week, the Saints believe this is the ideal setting to evaluate what Smyth can truly deliver.
If he succeeds, New Orleans may have found its long-term kicker. If not, Cade York remains a viable fallback option. But for now, the Saints have chosen a clear direction: they will trust Smyth in their biggest game of the season.
Everything now rests on his leg — and every point could determine the destiny of the Saints’ year.













