Louis Rees-Zammit Makes Shock Exit from NFL to Return to Rugby
Louis Rees-Zammit's career in the NFL came to an unexpected end when he disclosed on social media his decision to return to rugby.
The Welsh athlete surprised the sports world in January 2024, just before the announcement of Wales' Six Nations team, by stating his intention to leave the 15-man game and attempt a career in American football.
However, after a little over 18 months, Rees-Zammit has decided against continuing down that path and will instead make his return to the union.
Rees-Zammit's announcement.
"I've made the decision to leave the NFL and go back to rugby," he shared on Instagram.
"It has been an incredible journey, but it's time to come back home. I've decided that now is the right moment to make this choice so that I have adequate time to prepare for the upcoming season.
"My focus is solely on returning to rugby and excelling at what I do best. I can't convey how excited I am.
"There will be more updates coming soon, but for now, I'll see you again, rugby fans."
After leaving rugby, Rees-Zammit participated in an intense 10-week training camp with the NFL's International Pathway Program to catch up.
The Kansas City Chiefs, who have achieved several Super Bowl victories, recognized his athletic potential and included the Welshman in their 90-man roster as they prepared for preseason training.
Rees-Zammit had a brief opportunity to train alongside Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, participating in three preseason games, but ultimately did not make a strong enough impression to secure a spot on the Chiefs' final 53-man roster for the 2024/25 season.
Due to the presence of another international player, he was not retained on their practice squad and was quickly waived by Kansas.
Louis Rees-Zammit shares his timeline for returning to rugby if he does not achieve his NFL aspirations.
He was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars and placed on their practice squad, with the potential for elevation to the active roster.
Rees-Zammit had the opportunity to be activated for game day on two occasions, including during both of Jacksonville's matches in the United Kingdom, but he did not see any playtime.
Although he was released at the start of 2025, the 24-year-old was brought back by the Jaguars before the upcoming preseason.
However, an injury to his back hindered his training advancements and raised uncertainties about his ability to compete in the upcoming pre-season games, where he aimed to showcase his skills.
Consequently, Rees-Zammit has decided to prematurely conclude his NFL career and reintegrate into rugby just in time for the onset of the northern hemisphere club season.
Throughout 2024, he maintained a steadfast ambition to thrive in American football, but he has since moderated his expectations to keep his options available.
"International players usually have about two to three years to succeed in the NFL," he mentioned in June during an interview with talkSPORT. "Therefore, I wanted to pursue it at a moment when I could potentially go back to rugby."
"I'm currently 24, and I likely have another year or two to pursue my goals, depending on how this year unfolds. By the time I get back to rugby, I'll be either 25 or 26. I’m hopeful that I can still compete at the highest level."