International Star-Turned-NFL RB Reveals Reason for Abandoning Rugby

Former English Premiership star Louis Rees-Zammit, now a rookie running back with the Kansas City Chiefs, reflected on his transition from rugby to the NFL.

Rees-Zammit shared his thoughts on leaving his previous career behind in an interview with Men’s Health Magazine .

"I don’t want to have any regrets in life – and I know it would have been one of the biggest regrets I could ever have," he said.

Rees-Zammit began his rugby career with Gloucester Rugby, making a mark as the club's youngest European player at just over 18 years old.

His standout performance during the 2021 Six Nations Championship captured widespread attention, as his dynamic speed and skills highlighted him as a rising star in the rugby world.

Despite his success on the rugby field, Rees-Zammit felt there was more he wanted to achieve.

In January 2024, he announced his decision to leave rugby behind to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL, joining the NFL's International Player Pathway program. Established in 2017, this program aims to offer athletes from around the world a chance to enter the NFL.

In late March of this year, Rees-Zammit signed a three-year, $2.85 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs.

He visited with the Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns, and New York Jets, as well.

Now, he is set to begin his NFL career under the guidance of legendary head coach Andy Reid, and alongside one of the game's greatest modern-day quarterbacks in Patrick Mahomes.

Rees-Zammit joins a growing list of rugby stars making their mark in the NFL.

Philadelphia Eagles left tackle Jordan Mailata made a successful transition as well, securing a three-year, $66 million extension in April, making him one of the highest-paid tackles in the league.

As Rees-Zammit embarks on this new chapter, he will look to make a significant impact in the NFL, just as he did in the rugby world at a young age.

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