Former Welsh rugby sensation Louis Rees-Zammit has ignited a fervent bidding war among rugby union clubs, with the speedster confirming “unbelievable” interest since his decision to return to the 15-man game. This development marks a pivotal moment for the prodigious talent, whose brief, yet highly publicized, foray into American football has now concluded.
Rees-Zammit, at just 24 years old, recently concluded an 18-month experimental period within the National Football League, having joined both the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars through their International Player Pathway Program. Despite his dedicated efforts and significant media attention, he ultimately did not feature in a single regular-season game for either esteemed franchise.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Rees-Zammit expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming attention, though he remained tight-lipped about the specific clubs vying for his signature. “I can’t name teams, but I’ve had a load of interest, which is unbelievable. I’m very grateful for that,” he stated, hinting at the significant demand for his services across the rugby landscape.
The negotiation process is reportedly underway, with Rees-Zammit and his brother meticulously reviewing the various proposals and opportunities. The athlete indicated that an announcement regarding his future club could be expected within the coming week, signaling a swift resolution to the intense transfer speculation surrounding him.
His initial departure from rugby union in January 2024 sent shockwaves through the sport, as he embarked on an ambitious quest to pursue an NFL career. This bold move, driven by a long-held personal aspiration, saw him transition from the rugby pitch to the American football gridiron, a challenging endeavor for any athlete.
During his time stateside, Rees-Zammit initially secured a place on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad for the 2024 season. His commitment was further solidified when he signed an active roster deal with the Jaguars for the upcoming 2025 season, a testament to his potential and dedication, even as he traveled with the team for their London games in October.
With his sights now firmly set back on rugby, Rees-Zammit has articulated a clear ambition to once again represent his homeland, Wales. He was a crucial component of the Welsh squad that achieved Six Nations triumph in 2021, showcasing his electrifying pace and try-scoring prowess on the international stage.
His immediate priority is to secure a team where he can regain peak form and contribute significantly. Following this, he hopes to catch the eye of the national selectors, with a potential return to the Welsh jersey targeted for the Autumn Internationals, aiming to add to his impressive tally of 32 caps.