Louis Rees-Zammit's Unwavering Journey from Rugby to the NFL: A Story of Determination and Ambition

Louis Rees-Zammit reflects on his transition from rugby to the NFL, his determination to succeed, and his future with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Louis Rees-Zammit, the Welsh rugby sensation turned NFL hopeful, has made it clear that he has "never thought about" returning to rugby union. Despite his recent challenges in the NFL, Rees-Zammit remains steadfast in his commitment to pursuing a career in American football.

A Bold Transition

In January 2024, Rees-Zammit shocked the sports world by switching from rugby to American football. Although he failed to make a regular-season appearance during his rookie campaign with the Kansas City Chiefs, the 24-year-old is more determined than ever to succeed in the NFL.

"I've never thought about going back to rugby," Rees-Zammit told BBC Sport Wales. "It hasn't been in my head that I'm not going to do this. I've always wanted this."

The Road Ahead with the Jaguars

Rees-Zammit recently re-signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, securing a spot on their off-season roster. His next goal is to be selected for the active regular-season roster, a feat that requires surviving the cut from 90 players down to 53.

"The first step of the dream is to make an active roster," said Rees-Zammit. "I'm doing everything I can to make that happen. This is my dream, and the way I make it come true is by working as hard as I can to make the roster."

A New Chapter with the Jaguars

Rees-Zammit's return to the Jaguars coincides with significant changes within the franchise. The team has appointed Liam Coen as their new head coach, following his successful stint as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Coen's arrival has brought renewed hope to a team that won just four games last season.

"They are another reason I wanted to sign for the Jaguars. It's so exciting this project," Rees-Zammit added. "It's something I want to be a part of, I want to learn as much as I can."

Looking Forward

Rees-Zammit’s journey is a testament to his determination and ambition. As he continues to chase his NFL dream, he remains focused on improving both on and off the field.

"Every day is a challenge, every day is hard work, but it is one that for this dream to come true is worth doing," he said. "I'm doing everything I can to become a better player on the field and a better person off the field, so I'm really looking forward to this season."

What to Read Next

Willis Halaholo to Make Tonga Debut in Pacific Nations Cup 2025
Rugby

Willis Halaholo to Make Tonga Debut in Pacific Nations Cup 2025

Former Wales centre Willis Halaholo is set to debut for Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, facing Fiji and Samoa in a thrilling tournament.

Zimbabwe Triumphs Over Namibia to Secure First Rugby World Cup Spot Since 1991
Rugby

Zimbabwe Triumphs Over Namibia to Secure First Rugby World Cup Spot Since 1991

Zimbabwe clinches a spot in the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991 after a thrilling victory over Namibia in the Rugby Africa Cup final.

Welsh Rugby's Strategic Overhaul: A New Era for Regional Teams
Rugby

Welsh Rugby's Strategic Overhaul: A New Era for Regional Teams

The Welsh Rugby Union unveils a transformative plan to streamline regional teams, aiming for sustainability and improved performance in Welsh rugby.

Ellena Perry's Transition to Ireland Rugby: A Story of Resilience and Opportunity
Rugby

Ellena Perry's Transition to Ireland Rugby: A Story of Resilience and Opportunity

Ellena Perry, former England prop, earns her debut with Ireland Rugby, showcasing resilience and adaptability in international rugby.

Gregor Brown Joins British & Irish Lions Squad for Crucial Melbourne Clash
Rugby

Gregor Brown Joins British & Irish Lions Squad for Crucial Melbourne Clash

Scotland's Gregor Brown is set to bolster the British & Irish Lions squad ahead of their pivotal match in Melbourne, adding depth and versatility to the team.

Maro Itoje Leads British and Irish Lions Against ACT Brumbies in Crucial Warm-Up Match
Rugby

Maro Itoje Leads British and Irish Lions Against ACT Brumbies in Crucial Warm-Up Match

Maro Itoje captains the British and Irish Lions in a pivotal warm-up against ACT Brumbies, shaping the team for the upcoming Test series.

Lions' Epic Comeback: A Test of Grit and Glory in Melbourne
Rugby

Lions' Epic Comeback: A Test of Grit and Glory in Melbourne

The British & Irish Lions staged a thrilling comeback against the Wallabies at the MCG, showcasing their resilience and securing a series win.

Bristol Bears Bolster Squad with Georgian Rugby Star Luka Ivanishvili
Rugby

Bristol Bears Bolster Squad with Georgian Rugby Star Luka Ivanishvili

Bristol Bears enhance their squad by signing Georgian back row forward Luka Ivanishvili, a promising talent with 23 international caps.

Maro Itoje's Leadership Propels Lions to Series Victory with Eyes on Clean Sweep
Rugby

Maro Itoje's Leadership Propels Lions to Series Victory with Eyes on Clean Sweep

Maro Itoje leads the British and Irish Lions to a thrilling series win against Australia, aiming for a historic clean sweep.

Louis Rees-Zammit's Rugby Comeback: What Lies Ahead for the Welsh Speedster?
Rugby

Louis Rees-Zammit's Rugby Comeback: What Lies Ahead for the Welsh Speedster?

Louis Rees-Zammit announces his return to rugby after a stint in the NFL. Explore his potential destinations and the impact on Welsh rugby.

Lions vs Brumbies: Clash of Titans in Canberra - Rugby Showdown Preview
Rugby

Lions vs Brumbies: Clash of Titans in Canberra - Rugby Showdown Preview

Preview the thrilling rugby match between the British and Irish Lions and ACT Brumbies at Canberra's GIO Stadium. Catch live updates and team insights.

Bryan Easson to Step Down as Scotland Women's Rugby Head Coach Post-World Cup
Rugby

Bryan Easson to Step Down as Scotland Women's Rugby Head Coach Post-World Cup

Bryan Easson announces his departure as Scotland Women's Rugby head coach after the 2023 World Cup, reflecting on his impactful tenure and the team's achievements.

Scotland Faces Samoa Without Key Players: Jordan & Ritchie Join Graham on Injury List
Rugby

Scotland Faces Samoa Without Key Players: Jordan & Ritchie Join Graham on Injury List

Scotland's final summer tour game against Samoa will be without key players Tom Jordan and Jamie Ritchie due to injuries, adding to the absence of Darcy Graham.

Ireland's Rugby World Cup Journey: Players Rise to the Challenge Under Bemand's Leadership
Rugby

Ireland's Rugby World Cup Journey: Players Rise to the Challenge Under Bemand's Leadership

Ireland's head coach Scott Bemand discusses the selection process for the Women's Rugby World Cup, highlighting the team's resilience and depth as they prepare for the tournament.

Bundee Aki's Remarkable Journey: From Rugby Triumph to a Car-Birth Miracle
Rugby

Bundee Aki's Remarkable Journey: From Rugby Triumph to a Car-Birth Miracle

Discover the inspiring story of Bundee Aki, who led the British and Irish Lions to victory in Australia while his wife gave birth to their fifth child in a car.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.