New Orleans Saints Sign Daniel Carlson to Compete with Charlie Smyth

The New Orleans Saints have signed Daniel Carlson, a two-time All-Pro kicker, to challenge Charlie Smyth for the starting kicker role. This move comes as Smyth, who previously took over the position from Blake Grupe, missed his only field goal attempt during the pre-season.

Last season, Smyth successfully completed 12 of 16 field goals and all 13 extra-point attempts. The Saints had also signed Tanner Brown earlier this year, but he struggled in his pre-season performance, missing a 39-yard attempt against the Los Angeles Rams.

Carlson, who was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 and later played for the Oakland Raiders, has been recognized for his performance in 2021 and 2022, earning All-Pro honors. Despite a lower success rate of 81.5% last season, he has maintained a consistent presence in the league, not missing a game in seven years. The Saints will face the Dallas Cowboys in their final pre-season game before starting the regular season against the Detroit Lions on September 13.