Louis Rees-Zammit, a renowned former Wales rugby player, has garnered significant attention this week due to his pursuit of a transition to American football. At the age of 23, he engaged in discussions with the Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning champions of the Super Bowl, with the objective of securing a position within an NFL team for the imminent season.
This bold career shift has come as a surprise to many, given Rees-Zammit’s recent withdrawal from rugby just before the commencement of this year’s Six Nations tournament. Subsequently, he participated in the 2024 NFL International Player Pathway (IPP) program, specifically designed to equip individuals with the essential skills required to excel in the NFL.
Should Rees-Zammit succeed in obtaining a contract with an NFL team, he will need to navigate the highly competitive landscape to earn a position in the starting line-up. During the off-season, NFL franchises are permitted to accommodate up to 90 players, yet this number is subsequently reduced to a roster of 53 for the regular season. Those who do not make the final cut may be assigned to a franchise’s practice squad or released from the team entirely.
Notably, individuals who undergo the IPP often commence their NFL careers on practice squads, a path from which only a few have transitioned successfully to secure a starting role. Nevertheless, in 2024, all 32 NFL teams will be granted an additional roster spot for players who have participated in the IPP, potentially presenting Rees-Zammit with a more viable path to securing a starting role.
Upon the completion of the IPP, Rees-Zammit has engaged with scouts from various NFL teams, including the New York Jets, the Cleveland Browns, the Denver Broncos, and most recently, the Kansas City Chiefs. Of particular note, the Chiefs stand out due to their triumphant record of three Super Bowl victories within the past five years and the “Swift effect” attributed to Taylor Swift’s association with player Travis Kelce. This has resulted in a surge in the Chiefs’ popularity among young women, further elevating the brand value of both the NFL and the Chiefs.
In terms of potential earnings, even if Rees-Zammit were to join a practice squad, his annual salary could surpass the earnings of most rugby players in the English Premiership. Last season, practice squad players received an annual salary of just under £170,700, a figure that could increase significantly with a secured position in a franchise’s 53-man roster.
Rees-Zammit has expressed interest in a hybrid role in the NFL, blending the running back and wide receiver positions, a role in which few players have excelled. Additionally, he may also explore opportunities as a kick and punt returner, leveraging his agility and rugby background to make a profound impact in these crucial special teams positions.
The likelihood of Rees-Zammit making his NFL debut is anticipated during pre-season games before the roster is trimmed to 53 players. Former England rugby union wing Christian Wade serves as an exemplar of a rugby player who transitioned to the NFL, concluding an impressive 65-yard touchdown on debut for the Buffalo Bills in a pre-season game. Nonetheless, despite the remarkable debut, Wade did not feature in the regular season and instead spent three years on the franchise’s practice squad.
As Rees-Zammit embarks upon this new chapter in his career, he can seek inspiration and guidance from those who have trodden a similar path. Undeniably, challenges lie ahead, but his unwavering determination and talent could pave the way for a successful transition from the rugby pitch to the NFL field.