The New Orleans Saints have made a significant move at the kicker position, signing two-time All-Pro kicker Daniel Carlson to compete with incumbent Charlie Smyth for the team’s starting role. The addition creates a direct battle for playing time as the Saints prepare for their final preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys before the 2026 regular season begins.
Carlson’s credentials speak for themselves, having earned All-Pro honors twice during his NFL career. His arrival signals the Saints’ commitment to evaluating their options at a critical position heading into the new season. Head Coach Kellen Moore will have multiple kicking options to assess as the team finalizes its roster decisions.
Competition Heating Up
The signing places Smyth directly in the spotlight, but the incumbent kicker is taking the development in stride. “Competition for places in the NFL is just the way it is in this business,” Smyth said, adding that he would not be taking any such signings “personally.”
The Saints have experienced recent turbulence at the kicker position, with Blake Grupe previously holding the role before the team moved in a new direction. With Carlson now in the mix alongside Smyth, and Tanner Brown also on the roster, the team has assembled depth at a position that can prove decisive in close games throughout the season.
Both kickers will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities during the final preseason contest against Dallas, giving the Saints coaching staff ample opportunity to evaluate which player gives them the best chance to succeed when the regular season kicks off.