‘An experience you can’t buy’: Louis Rees-Zammit on his NFL adventure and fresh hope for Wales

February 6, 2026

TL;DR

Louis Rees-Zammit has returned to Welsh rugby after attempting a career in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars.
He did not play in a regular-season NFL game and was released by the Jaguars.
Rees-Zammit describes his NFL experience as "a whirlwind" but believes it matured him and made him a more versatile athlete.
He feels he is now 6kg heavier, quicker, more explosive, and has improved agility and footwork.
Despite criticism and online jibes, Rees-Zammit does not regret trying American football, calling it "a shot to nothing."
He now prefers watching American football to playing it, finding rugby more suited to his ability to "create something out of nothing."
Rees-Zammit's immediate priority is to perform consistently for Wales and his club, Bristol, aiming to be the best rugby player in the world.
He is set to play full-back against England in the Six Nations, with his coach Pat Lam highlighting his kicking game, speed, and communication skills.
Rees-Zammit expresses sympathy for the current turmoil in Welsh domestic rugby, standing by his teammates.
He acknowledges that playing for Wales has been rekindled and wants to help the team establish an identity and achieve results, especially against England.

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