Welsh Rugby Star Louis Rees-Zammit To Join NFL
In a shocking turn of events, Wales and Gloucester winger Louis Rees-Zammit has announced his departure from rugby union to pursue a career in the NFL.
The 22-year-old, capped 32 times by Wales, revealed his decision on social media, stating, "Opting to step away from international rugby on the eve of the Six Nations has been a painstaking decision, but I am extremely excited to take up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pursue a new challenge."
Rees-Zammit will join the NFL's International Player Pathway programme with the goal of earning a spot on an NFL roster in the United States later this year. A spokesperson for NFL UK expressed support, saying, "We look forward to supporting him on his journey in the programme."
The talented winger, who played a crucial role in Wales reaching the quarter-finals of the World Cup, leaves Gloucester, his only professional club, and will not be part of Wales' Six Nations squad. Rees-Zammit acknowledges the impact on Gloucester, expressing gratitude to the club and fans and emphasising the profound role they played in his rapid rise in rugby.
Rees-Zammit's decision is driven not only by his ambition but also by a desire to continue his father's legacy and make him proud. As he heads to Florida for a 10-week intensive camp in the NFL's international player pathway, the young athlete is eager to explore this unique challenge and potentially diversify his skill set. Whether he can make the transition from rugby star to NFL player will unfold in the coming months, with the NFL season set to begin in early September.
