Irish Gaelic Footballers Aim for NFL Kicking

At the University of South Florida, three Gaelic footballers from Ireland showcased their kicking prowess during the NFL’s International Player Pathway pro day, aiming to secure positions as kickers in the league. The event, held on a Wednesday afternoon in Tampa, Florida, marked the first time kickers and punters participated in the program, which has been providing opportunities for international players since 2017. Charlie Smyth, Mark Jackson, and Rory Beggan, all former goalkeepers for their respective county teams, demonstrated their skills, with some successfully making field goals from notable distances.

The pro day served as a platform for these athletes to prove their capabilities beyond the 50-yard mark, a challenge they had faced during their initial appearance in front of NFL teams. Beggan, for instance, successfully kicked from 50, 55, and 60 yards, while Smyth and Jackson also had their moments of success. Their performances caught the attention of NFL executives and coaches, with some expressing expectations that at least one of the Irish kickers would sign with an NFL team.

Behind the transition of these Gaelic footballers to American football is Tadhg Leader, a former professional rugby player who, after his own attempts to break into the NFL, started a business to help Irish athletes pursue kicking careers. Leader’s initiative aims to provide a pathway for these players to gain the necessary experience and exposure to compete at the professional level in American football.

The story of these Irish athletes reflects the growing trend of international players making their mark in the NFL, a league traditionally dominated by North American talent. Their journey from Gaelic football to potentially joining NFL rosters underscores the universal appeal of American football and the opportunities the sport presents for athletes worldwide.