Smyth to return as starting Saints kicker on Sunday

New Orleans Saints coach Kellen Moore has named Charlie Smyth as the starting kicker for Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. Smyth returns to the role after Daniel Carlson’s contract was terminated following inconsistent form, a change that matters as the Saints seek greater reliability.

Carlson converted 66% of 12 field-goal attempts and made 16 of 18 extra points; the Saints have won two of seven games this season. Smyth, 25, made 12 of 16 field goals and all 13 extra points as a starter last season. The former Gaelic footballer from County Down had been on the practice squad after Carlson joined, and Moore said Smyth had continued working to improve.