Rising Stars in the NFL Practice Squads

Jude McAtamney, Charlie Smyth, and Mark McNamee have all secured spots on their respective NFL teams' practice squads for the 2025 season. This achievement comes after they narrowly missed out on the active rosters, highlighting their potential and determination to make it to the top.

Jude McAtamney: A Promising Kicker for the New York Giants

McAtamney, a 25-year-old former Derry underage Gaelic footballer, has been confirmed as one of the 13 players on the New York Giants' practice squad. Despite losing out to veteran Graham Gano for the active roster, McAtamney showcased his skills during the pre-season. He handled kicking duties in victories over the New York Jets and New England Patriots, successfully kicking 10 extra points and a field goal across both games. His performance in the second half of the pre-season opener against the Buffalo Bills also demonstrated his readiness for the NFL stage.

Last season, McAtamney was called up from the practice squad to the Giants' active roster for a regular-season game against the Washington Commanders when Gano was injured. This experience has undoubtedly prepared him for future opportunities.

Charlie Smyth: A Productive Pre-Season with the New Orleans Saints

Charlie Smyth, a former Down goalkeeper, has been confirmed as one of the 15 players on the New Orleans Saints' practice squad. Smyth had a productive pre-season, playing in the second half of each game and successfully kicking field goals against the Los Angeles Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Denver Broncos. Notably, he scored a 52-yard field goal during the Saints' 28-19 loss to the Broncos.

Despite his impressive performance, head coach Kellen Moore opted to keep 26-year-old Grupe as the starting kicker for the new campaign. However, Smyth's consistent performance suggests he is a strong contender for future promotions.

Mark McNamee: A Quick Adjustment with the Green Bay Packers

Mark McNamee, a Dubliner, has been added to the Green Bay Packers' practice squad after missing out on the active roster. McNamee took all of the kick-offs in the opening pre-season game against the New York Jets, despite arriving in the United States just the day before. He saw more action in the second game against the Indianapolis Colts, where he kicked a 43-yard field goal and two extra points. Although he missed a 39-yard field goal attempt and an extra point, his quick adjustment to the NFL environment is commendable.

Regular kicker Brandon McManus handled all of the Packers' kicks in their final pre-season game, but McNamee's performance indicates he is a valuable asset to the team.

Conclusion

Jude McAtamney, Charlie Smyth, and Mark McNamee have all demonstrated their potential and determination by securing spots on their respective NFL practice squads. Their performances during the pre-season suggest they are ready to step up when the opportunity arises. As the 2025 season progresses, these rising stars will be ones to watch for potential promotions to the active rosters.