Rees-Zammit inked a three-year deal with the Chiefs in April, marking his official switch from rugby union to the NFL . The contract with the Super Bowl winners includes guaranteed money and a signing bonus as part of the NFL's International Player Pathway Programme.
However, his first two preseason games have underscored the significant learning curve involved in changing sports. After an underwhelming debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Rees-Zammit took to the pitch against the Detroit Lions on Saturday.
The Chiefs used Rees-Zammit in various roles yet again. He returned the opening kickoff 27 yards, acted as a gunner on the punt team and made a solid kickoff, showing his main value on special teams.
Despite Rees-Zammit's decent pass protection late in the 24-23 loss to the Lions, some fans were more captivated by undrafted free agent Steele. The UCLA fullback only managed eight yards from three carries but caught attention with his power and made some big blocks out of the backfield, reports the Mirror .
In a recent clash with the Jaguars, Steele made waves by turning four carries into 29 yards and a touchdown, putting pressure on Louis Rees-Zammit for a spot on the team. A Chiefs supporter took to social media to express their preference for Steele, posting: "Seems like he is turning into the guy we hoped Rees-Zammit would be."
Rees-Zammit was sidelined from Wednesday's practice due to a back issue, but it wasn't considered serious, and the Chiefs' social media squad still highlighted the 23 year old as he strives to clinch a place on Kansas City's 53-man roster for the forthcoming 2024 NFL season.
Rees-Zammit has been increasingly participating in kickoff drills at practice, suggesting his role might grow as the preseason unfolds. Despite facing stiff competition from Steele and others for a precious roster slot as the Chiefs target a third straight Super Bowl victory, Rees-Zammit has secured a three-year deal with the AFC West club.
The length of Rees-Zammit's contract surprised some, but it reflects the trust that head coach Andy Reid and the team have in the former rugby star.
Following Rees-Zammit's debut game against the Jaguars, Coach Reid shared his excitement: "Listen, it was exciting for him to have a chance to get in there and play," he said, "It's faster than what he has seen in practice, so from an experience standpoint it was great for him. That was a positive and then just build on it."
The Chiefs are due to conclude their preseason schedule against the Chicago Bears on Thursday, August 22. Following this, Reid will make his final roster decision.
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