Welsh rugby player Louis Rees-Zammit has concluded his American football venture after a year and a half without featuring in an NFL regular season match.
The 24-year-old athlete revealed through social media that he would be departing from the sport and making his way back to rugby union.
His time in America saw him join the Kansas City Chiefs during pre-season training last year, though the franchise released him before the regular campaign began.
Subsequently, the Jacksonville Jaguars brought him into their organisation, where he remained on their practice squad throughout the 2024 season without being promoted to the main roster.
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Louis Rees-Zammit has announced he is leaving the NFL
Taking to Instagram to share his decision, Rees-Zammit stated: “I’ve decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby! It’s been a great experience but it’s time to come home. I’ve decided that this is the best time to make this decision to give myself time to get everything in place for next season.”
The Welshman expressed enthusiasm about his rugby comeback, adding: “There’s only one thing that’s on my mind, that’s coming back to rugby and doing what I do best. I can’t explain how excited I am!!
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“There’ll be more news to come soon but for now, see you soon rugby fans.”
The athlete gained entry to American football through the NFL’s International Player Pathway programme. His initial opportunity came with the Kansas City Chiefs, home to stars like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, though his pre-season performances didn’t secure him a place on their squad.
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Louis Rees-Zammit was unable to make a team’s 53-man squad in the NFL
Following his release from Kansas City, the Jacksonville Jaguars signed him to their practice squad, where he spent the entire 2024 campaign. Despite remaining with the Florida-based franchise throughout the season, he never received promotion to their 53-player active roster.
After departing Jacksonville at season’s end, he briefly rejoined their expanded off-season roster before making his final decision to leave American football.
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Prior to his American football pursuit, Rees-Zammit had established himself as a prominent figure in rugby union. The speedster earned 32 caps representing Wales at international level during his career.
His club rugby journey included a six-year stint with Gloucester, where he developed his reputation as an explosive winger. Among his notable achievements was selection for the prestigious 2021 British & Irish Lions tour.
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Louis Rees-Zammit is set to return to rugby union
Recent reports have suggested the player has been dealing with a lower back injury, though the timeline for his full recovery remains uncertain.
His decision to pursue NFL opportunities had garnered widespread respect for his willingness to leave behind an established rugby career.