New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen has confirmed the signing of two veteran players, Charlie Smyth and Jude McAtamney, to the practice squads of their respective teams following their recent releases during the final roster cuts. Both players had been released from the New Orleans Saints and New York Giants yesterday as part of the trimming down to the 53-man roster for the NFL season.
Smyth, a native of Down, and McAtamney, hailing from Derry, were placed on the waiver wire after not making the final rosters but were not claimed by any other teams. Shortly afterward, the Saints and Giants brought them back on their practice squads, where they will continue to train and stay prepared for potential call-ups during the season.
Both players benefit from the international player exemption, which allows their inclusion on the practice squads without counting toward the team’s practice squad limit. This means that although they are not part of the main roster, they remain eligible for promotion, especially if the team’s primary kicker sustains an injury or underperforms.
Charlie Smyth made an impression during the preseason when he delivered a last-second game-winning field goal in the Saints’ preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, showcasing his value as a clutch kicker.
For now, both players will earn a weekly salary of $12,500, which equates to $225,000 for the full 18-week season. Veteran practice squad players with more than two years of experience can earn up to $21,300 per week, with the potential to make $383,400 for the season.
While not yet part of the main rosters, Smyth and McAtamney still have an opportunity to make an impact as the season progresses, should they be needed.
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