Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Louis Rees-Zammit, the Welsh rugby sensation, has made a significant transition from rugby union to American football, now embracing a new role as a wide receiver with the Jacksonville Jaguars. This shift comes after a brief stint as a running back with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he sharpened his skills but ultimately found his true calling in the receiver position.
Transition from Rugby to NFL
Rees-Zammit, born on February 2, 2001, in Penarth, Wales, has had an impressive rugby career, scoring 38 tries in 69 appearances for Gloucester and representing Wales internationally with 14 tries in 32 caps. During the 2023 Rugby World Cup, he showed his rugby skills by scoring five tries and helping Wales reach the quarter-finals.
However, in January 2024, he made the bold decision to leave rugby and pursue a career in the NFL through the International Player Pathway Program. This program is designed to provide opportunities for international athletes to join NFL teams, and Rees-Zammit’s journey began with a 10-week training camp at IMG Academy in Florida.
New Role with the Jaguars
After the Chiefs waived him, Rees-Zammit quickly joined the Jaguars and embraced his new role as a wide receiver. In a recent practice, he expressed his excitement about this transition, stating, “I believe I’m much more suited to playing receiver given my size and strength. That role definitely fits me better.” His time as a running back provided valuable experience, but he is eager to focus on the responsibilities and skills required of a receiver. Rees-Zammit’s athleticism is a significant asset.
He showed his speed at the International Player Pathway Pro Day, recording impressive 40-yard dash times of 4.44 and 4.50 seconds. These times position him competitively among NFL prospects, although he expressed disappointment as he had previously clocked faster times in training. His agility and footwork, combined with his rugby background, should boost his performance on the field as he adapts to the nuances of American football.
Looking Ahead
As Louis Rees-Zammit integrates into the system of Jaguars, he is focused on mastering the playbook and preparing for the upcoming NFL season. He is particularly excited about participating in two games in London this October, a unique opportunity for him to show his skills on an international stage.
The Jaguars will face the Chicago Bears and the New England Patriots, and Rees-Zammit recalls his first experience watching an NFL game in London as a young fan, further fueling his passion for the sport.
Rees-Zammit’s journey from rugby to the NFL is not just a career change. As he continues to develop his skills and embrace his new role with the Jaguars, fans are eager to see how this talented athlete will make his mark in American football.
