Louis Rees-Zammit's NFL Adventure and Rugby Renaissance
As Wales prepare for their 2026 Six Nations opener against England, Louis Rees-Zammit is back in the red jersey, training with renewed vigour and perspective. The lightning-fast attacker, now lining up at full-back, reflects on his two-year American football adventure with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars, insisting the experience has only enhanced his rugby capabilities.
The American Dream and Rugby Reality
Twelve months ago, Rees-Zammit was in New Orleans watching the Super Bowl, still chasing his multimillion-dollar NFL dream. Today, he finds himself preparing for the contrasting atmosphere of a sodden Twickenham in February, yet harbours no regrets about his gridiron flirtation. "It was essentially a shot to nothing. A bit of a punt," he admits. "But you've got to try and back yourself. It's the same in life. You have to have confidence otherwise someone else is going to take your job."
Despite never starting a regular-season NFL game and facing setbacks including a back injury and coaching reshuffle, Rees-Zammit describes the past two years as "a whirlwind" that taught him invaluable lessons. "I learned a lot about myself," he says. "It was a completely different culture, a completely different game. I think it's matured me a lot."
Physical and Mental Transformation
The 25-year-old returns to rugby 6kg heavier, slightly quicker, and more explosive through contact. "I think my agility is a lot better," he explains. "Now I feel like when I see half a gap I can properly go into it and use my footwork to get through. Previously I was very reliant on my pace. I feel like I've got more variety to my game. That's only going to help me."
His mother, Maxine, is pleased to have her son home. "My mum didn't really like American football too much – she was very happy to see me come back," Rees-Zammit reveals. While he appreciates being a diehard NFL fan differs from playing professionally, he cherishes unforgettable moments like signing with the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. "Fans were shouting: 'Good luck!' and 'Let's go!' out of their car windows. That was pretty crazy. It made me feel famous for a second."
Facing Criticism and Embracing Growth
Not everyone welcomed his return warmly. Rees-Zammit has faced jibes like 'Where's your helmet?' and harsher online messages. "People trying to call you a failure because you tried a different sport. Just trying to put you down really," he says. "Even when they're trying to be offensive I find it quite funny. The fact is I went over and gave it a go. I've had a mad experience, met some amazing people and learned so much."
His primary motivation now is clear: "To wake up every day and try to be the best rugby player in the world. I feel I have the ability and skill set to do that. It's about performing consistently. Ultimately that's what the best do."
Wales' Six Nations Prospects
Wales will undoubtedly benefit from his return. With 16 tries in 35 Tests, Rees-Zammit has proven his Six Nations pedigree, helping Wales win the title in 2021 and claiming the try of the tournament award with a glorious chip and chase score against Scotland. Bristol coach Pat Lam believes full-back is his ideal position. "He's got a kicking game and the speed to get himself out of trouble," Lam says. "He's also an excellent communicator. And when he has drier conditions we know what he can do. His pace is ridiculous, it really is."
Rees-Zammit acknowledges the challenges facing Welsh domestic rugby, particularly the Ospreys' potential demise. "I feel for the boys ... they have to live it every day. I'll stand by my teammates. You have to. It's not on what they're doing," he states. An uplifting performance against England could provide much-needed positivity. "Even when times are tough you want to play your best when it's Wales v England. It's one of those games you can always get up for."
Having watched Wales' games from America, he admits: "It was obviously tough to see them losing." Returning home has rekindled his passion. "I guess it has made me realise what it means to play for Wales," he reflects. "We haven't really given our fans much over the past few years. We want them to see an identity in the way we play. Then I think results will come off the back of it."
As Welsh rugby navigates turbulent waters, a bolt or two of Rees-Lightning this weekend could prove heaven sent, demonstrating that his NFL adventure was not a detour but a valuable chapter in his rugby evolution.
