The Denver Broncos recently welcomed Welsh rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit for a free agent visit, as reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 194 pounds, Rees-Zammit has been a standout player for Gloucester Rugby in England from 2018 to 2024, accumulating an impressive 190 points in 69 games. Additionally, he has been a key player for Wales' national rugby team since 2020, scoring 70 points in 31 games. After showcasing his skills as a wing and fullback in rugby, the 23-year-old athlete is now eyeing a transition to the NFL, aiming to make an impact as a running back, wide receiver, or returner.
Before his visit with the Broncos, Rees-Zammit had already met with the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets. His next stop is scheduled to be with the Kansas City Chiefs. During the University of South Florida’s pro day last week, Rees-Zammit impressed scouts with an unofficial 4.44-second 40-yard dash. His preparation included a 10-week training stint at the IMG Academy in Florida leading up to the pro day.
Rees-Zammit is not the first player to attempt a switch from rugby to the NFL. Players like Hayden Smith, who was with the New York Jets from 2012 to 2013, and Daniel Adongo, who spent three years with the Indianapolis Colts from 2013 to 2015, have paved the way. Speaking to the Associated Press' Rob Maaddi, Rees-Zammit highlighted the transferable skills between the two sports, emphasizing his ability to read defenses, find gaps, and maintain awareness on the field.
Other rugby players who made a transition to the NFL include Alex Gray, who spent time with the Atlanta Falcons from 2017 to 2019, and Christian Wade and Christian Scotland-Williamson, who had preseason stints with the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers, respectively. Although these players faced challenges, Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Jordan Mailata's successful transition from rugby league in Australia to the NFL in 2018 offers hope to Rees-Zammit.
Mailata's journey is particularly inspiring, having started 57 games for the Eagles since 2020. Encouragingly, NFL teams now have more opportunities for international players, with a 17th spot on the practice squad reserved for them, and the ability to carry an extra international player during training camp. Last spring, the Broncos benefited from this rule, as they were allocated defensive lineman Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi as part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway. While Ndubuisi spent last season on Denver's practice squad, his current status on the team's official roster is unclear.
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