Football

GAA stars Rory Beggan and Charlie Smyth sign with NFL agent

Darragh Leader, former Connacht rugby player has also signed with the same agency

Charlie Smyth holding a water bottle at the NFL Combine and Rory Beggan smiling into the camera at the NFL combine
Ulster GAA's American Dream Charlie Smyth (left) and Rory Beggan have signed with the Pro Star Sports agency ahead of the upcoming season. PICTURE: NFL UK
By Liam Grimley

RORY Beggan and Charlie Smyth have taken the next step on their NFL journey by signing with an NFL agent as they prepare to negotiate with teams.

The pair of keepers performed well at the NFL Combine, holding their own against college players who have played the sport for years, paving the way for future generations of Irish athletes to try their hand at the combine.

Beggan and Smyth, along with fellow Irishman Darragh Leader, have signed with Paul Sheehy at Pro Star Sports, which represents numerous NFL players, including three-time Super Bowl-winning placekicker Harrison Butker.

Mr Sheehy, an attorney and president of the agency, said on social media: “Excited to announce we will be working with Irish NFL International Pathway Players Charlie Smyth, Rory Beggan and Darragh Leader on their NFL journeys!”

The next step for the three kickers will be to further impress coaches at their pro day, which is a chance for NFL scouts and coaches to see the players work out in a less stressful setting and see them put through their paces further.

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Leader, Beggan and Smyth will attend the University of South Florida’s pro day in an attempt to further showcase the kicking talent that Ireland has to offer.

The USF pro day will be held next Wednesday, March 20, and will be attended by scouts from various NFL teams.