Irish IPP Tracker: Charlie Smyth to work out in New Orelans on Thursday

A historic week awaits....

It’s been a historic few months for Irish athletes attempting to make it in the NFL. Through the work of Tadhg Leader and Leader Kicking in conjunction with the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program, there has been a surge in interest not only in the league for new fans on the island of Ireland, but also in the chances that have been offered to players such as Rory Beggan, Charlie Smyth, Mark Jackson and Darragh Leader.

Charlie Smyth is bound for New Orleans this Thursday

On Monday, it was revealed that Mayobridge man Charlie Smyth will travel to New Orleans this Thursday for the opportunity of a lifetime: a workout with the Saints. Last week at his NFL Pro Day, Charlie made eight out of his ten attempts, impressing on the day Also, one of his kicks was from sixty yards. Our esteemed Corkonian Conor Mangan had a chance to chat to Charlie on the day itself after his performance:

I mean, what about this kick today? If this doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what will (Credit NFLUK):

Wishing Charlie all the very best this Thursday. It’s a deserved opportunity for a genuinely down to earth lad - the candles will be lit!

What’s next for Rory Beggan?

The Scotstown man made a huge impression at his NFL Pro Day last week, not missing a shot on the day, going ten for ten. No public interest in Beggan has become known, but its clear that the Monaghan man made a clear impression on the day in Florida. On Monday evening at the Ulster GAA launch, Monaghan manager Vinny Corey talked about his availability for the panel. It’s very much he doesn’t know himself what the story is,” Corey said via The Irish Independent. “It’s very much a waiting game for him over there, ya know? He shot very well the last day and I was speaking to him after that and he was very happy with how he went. “I know he has put a lot of work into what he is doing and from his point of view it’s a waiting game now, it’s a bit of a limbo.”

For Corey, it’s clear that this can change at any moment. “If he got interest from a club my understanding is he’d stay out visit them and talk to them so it is very much up in the air”, he said. Monaghan are set to play Cavan in the Ulster Championship in under two weeks time, with the winner facing Tyrone in around four weeks from now, so it seems that Beggan’s NFL path is still clear. After such an impressive performance in Florida, his stock with all thirty two teams is rising for sure.

Darragh Leader and Mark Jackson

Did you see the workout video from former Connacht man Darragh Leader last week? My god, folks. Darragh had a slight knock at the NFL Combine and waited for his Pro Day so he could give it his best shot. While the injury came back slightly on the day, Leader impressed with some excellent punting outdoors in Florida in front of scouts. Also, Leader has been a constant for Beggan, Smyth and Jackson with their kicking techniques, holding the ball for them and helping their progression from the GAA to American Football. It is intriguing to see what may happen with Leader, especially as the days and weeks go on. As an IPP option, having someone with such raw talent there seems like a no brainer.

Conor Mangan reported at the weekend that Wicklow goalkeeper Mark Jackson had signed with Rob Roche as his agent representative in the league. For what its worth, Roche also represents one of the best kickers in the league - ever: Justin Tucker. From watching afar, its clear that Jackson has improved over the last 4-6 weeks, especially with his punting, which was superb on his Pro Day. Jackson can kick for days, as well. His raw talent is there to see and over the next few weeks he is another exciting option for an IPP team looking to add to their roster for the next year.

Remember: these guys can sign with any team, at any time. Each NFL roster can include an international player this upcoming season.

Wishing Charlie the very best this Thursday - and the entire cohort the best!

A special word of thanks to Conor Mangan for his help and friendship over the last few weeks. The content that Conor has allowed PFI to put out has been game changing from Indy to Florida. Thank you, Mr Mangan! - Also, a huge thanks to Tadhg Leader and the entire IPP cohort for being so accommodating with us at a busy time for them. Believe me lads, it makes a huge difference — and it is massively appreciated. This is only the start….