The New Orleans Saints had to make a decision on Charlie Smyth.
They had already elevated the kicker three times from the practice squad. For him to play again on gameday, he'd need an active-roster contract.
The Saints gave that to Smyth on Saturday. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports it's a three-year deal for Smyth.
Smyth has already made quite a name for himself.
His first NFL field goal was a 56-yarder that had plenty of distance to spare.
This past week, Smyth kicked a game-winner.
Now, he's got a long-term future in the NFL.
MORE: Booger McFarland weighs in on Lions' nose-picking celebrations
It's been quite the rise. Smyth is from Northern Ireland, and he was a Gaelic football player.
That's a sport that can lend itself to great kicking athleticism, but it's still not an easy adjustment to being an NFL kicker.
Smyth has made it look easy, though. The Saints cut Blake Grupe to give him a chance, and Smyth has immediately rewarded that faith.
Now, he knows he can settle in with the Saints and prove he belongs in New Orleans for years to come.
More NFL news:
- Jaxson Dart has a 50% head injury problem
- ACL recovery timeline impacts when Patrick Mahomes, Micah Parsons will return
- The Packers had a chance to sign an all-time great for $5 million and passed
- Tua Tagovailoa's contract looks like a nightmare
- Bills may not win the AFC East — but they sent a clear warning to the rest of the NFL
- We now know what the Colts are paying Philip Rivers