What next for Rees-Zammit, a year after NFL move?

It has been a year since Louis Rees-Zammit sent shockwaves through the world of rugby union by announcing he was to pursue his dream of playing American football in the NFL.

Without him Wales went through a winless 2024 but, as the regular NFL season draws to a close, changes are afoot – including at Rees-Zammit’s current team the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Head coach Doug Pederson was recently dismissed after three seasons in charge, with the Jaguars finishing with a disappointing 4-13 record this season.

The former Wales wing’s NFL journey has already been full of twists and turns.

Rees-Zammit was part of the 2024 cohort of the International Player Pathway (IPP), a 10-week crash course designed to teach aspiring players the skills required for the NFL.

Initially, he was signed to the practice squad of reigning Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs, under head coach Andy Reid and star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Sky Sports NFL analyst and NFL global flag football ambassador Phoebe Schecter has offered an insight into the challenges facing Rees-Zammit.

“Whenever a new head coach comes in, they’ll evaluate the entire roster,” Schecter told BBC Sport Wales.

“They’ll want to see who fits their vision and they may have a different perspective on the schemes they want to implement.

“International Player Pathway participants, like Louis, are often seen as low-risk assets because they don’t take up a roster spot, which makes them an attractive option for teams looking to develop talent.”

So what must Rees-Zammit do to succeed?

Rees-Zammit was known for his blistering speed and agility on the rugby field, coveted qualities in the NFL.

But the 23-year-old’s transition has not been without its challenges with Rees-Zammit already having played multiple positions, including running back and on special teams.

Schecter believes that wide receiver might be his best fit.

“Ultimately, it’s all about developing his football IQ,” Schecter explained.

“He needs to absorb as much knowledge as possible about the game. It’s been tough for him, but his athleticism is undeniable, and that will give him a solid foundation.”

With a new head coach on the way in Jacksonville, Rees-Zammit’s future in the NFL remains uncertain.

The Jaguars have not opted to sign Rees-Zammit to a reserve/future contract, which franchises can use to prevent players from negotiating deals with other teams.

As a result, the former Wales wing is able to strike a deal with any of the NFL’s 32 teams, but he could find himself back with Jacksonville in the future.

“Their season is over now and they don’t really start going back until end of March, early April,” said Schecter.

“Nobody’s really in the building right now but he’s doing everything he can to make sure that he either can re-sign with the Jags or find another team.”

How will Rees-Zammit compare with Wade?

Rees-Zammit was not the first player to make the move from rugby to gridiron.

As recently as 2018, Christian Wade left Wasps to purse his NFL dream.

Like Rees-Zammit, Wade took part in the IPP programme, eventually joining the practice squad at Buffalo Bills, where Schecter was coaching at the time.

“He was the first in and the last out – exactly what you need,” she recalls.

“It’s not just about learning the playbook, it’s about adapting to a new culture, absorbing information and adjusting to a completely different style of play.”

Schecter emphasised the importance of being around the team, adding: “The more you can be around the guys, the more conversations you can have, the better. That’s how you learn and grow in this environment.”

Although Wade’s time with the Bills was short, Schecter says his dedication serves as a valuable lesson for Rees-Zammit.

“You have to look at the mindset every day, your preparation for games, and how you take care of your body through nutrition, recovery, and strength conditioning,” she said.

“All of that combined with the actual gameplay and mastering the football movements is essential.”

Two sports sharing ideas

Schecter also highlighted the increasing overlap between rugby union and American football, with movements and tactics from each sport beginning to influence the other.

“We’re seeing a lot more American football movements in rugby now, whether it’s a juke step or trick plays,” she said.

“And on the flip side, American football is borrowing from rugby, with plays like the hook and ladder becoming more common.”

Schecter feels this exchange of ideas means Rees-Zammit, with his combination of experiences, will be offer valuable insights and techniques to whichever team he plays for.

“Louis is only going to be able to educate and help those around him so much more,” she added.

“That’s why I feel he cannot lose in this situation.”