McAtamney impresses for Giants in defeat by Jets

Jude McAtamney hopes to play in the NFL for New York Giants

Former Derry Under-20s gaelic footballer Jude McAtamney kicked two field goals for New York Giants as they lost 10-6 to New York Jets in Saturday night's pre-season game.

The 24-year-old was successful with his two field goal attempts, which were from 23 and 43 yards.

McAtamney also took kick-offs with regular kicker Graham Gano not featuring.

The Swatragh man, who won an Ulster Under-20s title with Derry, is competing with Scottish-born Gano for a roster spot.

He played two college seasons for Rutgers University who, like the Giants, are based in New Jersey.

However, former Down goalkeeper Charlie Smyth only hit one kick-off for New Orleans Saints in their match against Tennessee Titans on Sunday.

Smyth wasn’t called upon for field goals or extra point conversions with the Saints’ incumbent kicker Blake Grupe hit two field goals from 54 and 38 yards and three extra points in a 27-30 defeat.

All 32 NFL teams now must submit their 53-player team rosters for the coming season by 21:00 BST on Tuesday.

In addition to the 53-player active roster, each side can have up to 17 players on its practice squad.

Irish-born Dan Whelan will hope he continues as Green Bay’s punter for a second season.