In a surprising turn of events, Louis Rees-Zammit has decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby, reigniting excitement among fans.
Topics covered
In a stunning turn of events, Louis Rees-Zammit, the 24-year-old Welsh international, has made headlines by announcing his departure from the NFL to return to rugby. This decision comes just 18 months after he chased his dreams in American football, during which he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs and later the Jacksonville Jaguars.
However, despite his aspirations, Rees-Zammit did not see any action in regular-season games during his time in the NFL.
Rees-Zammit’s Announcement
On Thursday night, Rees-Zammit took to Instagram to share the news with his fans, saying, “I’ve got an exciting announcement to make! I’ve decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby.” His enthusiasm was palpable as he expressed how eager he is to reconnect with the sport he loves.
“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,” he added. Can you feel the excitement? It’s clear he’s ready for this new chapter.
He further emphasized his passion for rugby, stating, “There’s only one thing that’s on my mind, and that’s coming back to rugby and doing what I do best. I can’t explain how excited I am!!” This announcement not only marks a personal change for Rees-Zammit but also signals a potential boost for Welsh rugby as he aims to reconnect with his roots.
A Brief Look Back at His NFL Journey
Rees-Zammit’s NFL journey began in 2024, coinciding with a crucial moment for Welsh rugby—the national team’s Six Nations squad announcement. After navigating the NFL’s International Player Pathway, he secured a spot with the Chiefs, but a challenging pre-season led to his release. He then joined the Jaguars, spending the entire 2024 season on the practice squad. Despite his efforts, regular-season action remained elusive.
Just last week, Rees-Zammit missed training due to a lower back injury, casting doubt on his future in American football. Even during this time, he trained alongside fellow Wales internationals, Liam Williams and Gareth Anscombe, showcasing his enduring connection to rugby.
Future Prospects in Rugby
Rees-Zammit’s return to rugby comes at an opportune moment. He previously hinted at a shift back during an interview with TalkSport in June, stating, “International players get probably two to three years to make it in the NFL.” This acknowledgment of the time-sensitive nature of his career decisions reflects his desire to return to rugby at the right moment.
With a solid track record of 32 caps for Wales, including a tour with the British and Irish Lions in 2021 and participation in the 2023 World Cup in France, his experience and talent are undeniable. His return is expected to inject fresh energy into the Welsh squad as new coach Steve Tandy gears up for his tenure starting next month.
This announcement marks a significant moment not just in Rees-Zammit’s career but also in the broader landscape of Welsh rugby, ushering in exciting times ahead for fans and players alike. Are you ready to see what he’ll achieve next?
