Entering his third pre-season with the New Orleans Saints, Irish kicker Charlie Smyth says he's transitioning from fan to player. Signed through the NFL's International Player Pathway, Smyth stepped in for Blake Grupe in Week 13 last November and went 13-for-13 on extra points with 12 of 16 field goals in six games. "I've got the experience in games to fall back on now," said the County Down native. "It's been great to be into my third camp and feel a little more experienced, nothing here is foreign to me anymore."

The heightened profile as a starter presents new challenges - Smyth joked about topping fantasy football scores ahead of stars like Josh Allen, and was amazed to see himself in the Madden video game. "I used to play this game as a teenager growing up and I never thought I would be in that position," he said.

During off-season downtime, Smyth connected with fellow Irish sportsman Shane Lowry, discussing striking mechanics between golf and football. "There are a lot of similarities between kicking and golf. From weight transfer to ball contact... we mashed it up."

This summer brings new competition with Tanner Brown joining the roster, but Smyth remains focused: "You don't take anything personally. All the specialists are with each other all the time - you just go out and execute to the best of your ability."

Charlie Smyth has nailed 13 of 13 extra points and 12 of 16 field goals in his Saints tenure. The New Orleans Saints continue developing their international talent through the pathway program.