**Louis Rees-Zammit Opens Up About Missing Wales Rugby Amid NFL Ambitions**
Louis Rees-Zammit, the former Welsh rugby sensation who stunned the sporting world with his move to American football, has openly admitted that he still misses representing Wales on the rugby field. Speaking in a candid interview on Sky Sports as he returned to the UK, Rees-Zammit reflected on his journey so far and left the possibility of a rugby comeback tantalisingly open.
After swapping the oval ball for a helmet and pads just over a year ago, Rees-Zammit has been chasing his NFL dream in the United States. Having initially been picked up by the Kansas City Chiefs, the 24-year-old now finds himself signed to the Jacksonville Jaguars ahead of the 2025/26 season. His new team is due to play an NFL regular-season fixture in London later this year, alongside the New York Jets and Cleveland Browns, with Rees-Zammit returning home to help promote the event and reconnect with his British supporters.
Despite his early struggles in football, including being released by the Chiefs and spending last season on the practice squad, Rees-Zammit remains determined to establish himself stateside. “It’s been incredibly hectic, almost two years now since I made the move, and I haven’t really had time to reflect,” Rees-Zammit told Sky Sports. He spoke of the steep learning curve, noting: “I’m still just finding my feet in Jacksonville, grafting every day, learning from experienced teammates and adapting to my third playbook in just a year. The process is intense but rewarding.”
With the recent conclusion of a gruelling 10-week camp, Rees-Zammit now has a brief respite before training resumes. “We finished the camp last week and now we’ve got a month off before preparations for the season step up again,” he said. “The focus is now on making the active 53-man roster – that’s the main goal.”
During his time away, the Welsh rugby team has faced challenging times, enduring a record 17 consecutive Test match defeats. Watching these struggles from across the Atlantic has not been easy for the Cardiff-born athlete, who remains fiercely proud of his heritage. “Of course, I miss representing my country,” he confessed. “Living in the States is fantastic and I love the NFL adventure, but Wales will always be home and pulling on that red jersey was a dream fulfilled.”
Naturally, questions about a potential return to rugby union were raised. While the NFL remains his immediate priority, Rees-Zammit would not rule out a homecoming. “You never know what’s round the corner in life. I’m only 24 – time is on my side. I wouldn’t close the book on rugby or Wales.”
For the moment, fans hoping for Rees-Zammit’s swift return will have to wait. With his focus firmly set on making the Jaguars’ matchday line-up, his attention will be elsewhere as Wales embarks upon a two-Test tour of Japan under the leadership of coach Matt Sherratt.
Ever the supporter, he shared his optimistic outlook for the national side. “Japan will bring a new challenge and a clean slate for Wales. There are talented younger players coming through and a couple of lads have just gone out to the Lions, so there’s plenty to be excited about.” He added hopefully: “I’m backing the boys – fingers crossed this is the start of better things.”
Louis Rees-Zammit’s journey from Principality Stadium to the world’s most popular gridiron is, by any measure, an extraordinary tale of risk and reinvention. While his attention is set firmly on the NFL, his comments make clear that the lure of Welsh rugby, and the unwavering support of his home nation, are never far from his heart. With youth on his side and ambition undimmed, his story remains far from over – whichever code he ultimately chooses.
As the Jaguars prepare for their London showcase, British NFL and rugby enthusiasts alike will no doubt keep a close eye on Rees-Zammit’s progress, wondering where his extraordinary career will take him next.