Louis Rees-Zammit Returns to Rugby After NFL Stint

Louis Rees-Zammit, the Welsh professional rugby player, declared his return to rugby on Thursday, subsequent to his departure from the National Football League (NFL).

This choice to switch sports arises approximately a year and a half after the 24-year-old initially left rugby to pursue a career in American Football.

Rees-Zammit had been signed by the Kansas City team, who are four-time Super Bowl champions, the previous year. This followed his favorable impression on scouts at the NFL International Player Pathway program. However, he was subsequently excluded from their official roster for the 2024 season.

Last August, Rees-Zammit joined the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad prior to securing a spot on their active roster in February.

In an announcement made via his Instagram account, Rees-Zammit stated his decision to leave the NFL and resume his rugby career. He acknowledged it as a valuable experience but emphasized that now is the opportune moment to make this change.

Rees-Zammit shared on Instagram on Thursday, “I’ve got an exciting announcement to make! I’ve decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby!”

He further stated, “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.”

Rees-Zammit began his professional journey with Wales, debuting in 2020 and securing the Six Nations Championship the following year. During his time representing his country, he participated in 32 matches and scored 14 tries. His last appearance for Wales was at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where the team faced defeat against Argentina in the quarter-finals.

Rees-Zammit conveyed his excitement about returning to rugby and indicated that additional updates would be revealed shortly.

He further added, “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!!”

“There’ll be more news to come soon but for now, see you soon rugby fans.”