Louis Rees-Zammit is back and better than ever! After a whirlwind of chasing an NFL dream, the Welsh rugby star has returned to his roots and is making waves on the field once again. Rees-Zammit took a bold leap by flying to the States, joining the NFL’s international player pathway, and even signing with the Kansas City Chiefs! Despite all the praise, the active roster eluded him and he only snagged a few pre-season matches. Fast forward, and he’s back on the rugby pitch with Bristol Bears, already dazzling fans by scoring six tries in nine games for the club and two for Wales during the autumn internationals. Under the guidance of director Pat Lam, he’s thriving at full-back and even bagged a long-term deal with the Bears!
Rees-Zammit candidly shares how stepping away from the NFL was a “massive weight off the shoulders,” and how much he missed the thrill of the game. “It’s not even about proving myself,” he admits, “I just missed playing so much!” While his NFL journey didn’t pan out as hoped, it gifted him new skills – power, agility, strength – he now brings to rugby. At just 24, Rees-Zammit is ready to prove himself again, aiming for a strong run before the Six Nations. He reflects that enjoying rugby is now his main goal, and being back on the field feels like being a kid again.
His NFL stint taught him a lot about his body and training, broadening his abilities beyond sheer speed. The elusive winger is determined not to rest on his laurels, saying, “As soon as you start getting comfortable, others overtake you”. This is a player hungry for more, and we can’t wait to see what he achieves next. Rugby fans, keep your eyes on this one! 🏉🔥