Position battles are revving up for the New Orleans Saints. Oddly enough, the kicker battle has actually been one that fans are watching closely this offseason. Charlie Smyth is an exciting rookie with a big leg, but will he edge out Blake Grupe?
The Saints head coach gave some valuable updates there on Monday afternoon.
Dennis Allen adds suspense to Saints kicker competition
Allen basically challenged both Blake Grupe and Charlie Smyth after practice on Monday. Allen noted that he does not think that the Saints kicker competition has been settled yet. Clearly, there's plenty more for both players to prove.
The inconsistency is what will worry Saints fans. That was on display last year for Grupe, especially in the first half of the season. It continues to haunt him a bit during practice this year.
Smyth shares that challenge, though. Both players are trying to find a consistent groove from both close and afar when it comes to attempts.
The rookie boot has shown off his massive range already during training camp. He's nailed multiple 60-yard kicks, including a 62-yard field goal attempt on Sunday. he had room to spare on that make, too.
That being said, his touch on kicks has shown to be lacking at times. He missed two extra-point tries on Sunday. He's shown to be a bit streaky, making a handful of kicks in a row before missing a couple, so far.
Smyth did have a perfect day last week during practice, and coaches took notice. Regardless, stacking those sort of days should be the goal for both Grupe and Smyth.
The coaching staff hasn't chosen their kicker yet, and I wouldn't expect that decision before the late stages of the preseason. It is that close of a roster bubble competition.
Related: New Orleans Saints' roster bubble candidate continues to fight major inconsistency during 2024 training camp
Local New Orleans, LA
Most Popular
Comments / 0