NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport revealed some details on Friday regarding the contract negotiations between rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit and the Kansas City Chiefs.
According to Rapoport, Rees-Zammit is currently in Kansas City to finalize a three-year deal. This contract reportedly includes “some” guaranteed money along with a signing bonus.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Adam Teicher reported that the Chiefs were keen on signing the Welsh rugby player with plans to explore his potential as both a running back and a wide receiver.
At 23 years old, Rees-Zammit has been playing for Gloucester Rugby in the Premiership Rugby league, the top division in England, since 2018.
Despite his success and rising status in rugby, Rees-Zammit has decided to venture into football. He recently participated in the NFL’s International Player Pathway pro day, impressing scouts with his performance.
Teicher noted that Rees-Zammit’s remarkable 4.43-second 40-yard dash time garnered interest from multiple teams. Ultimately, he chose to sign with the reigning Super Bowl champions.
While Rees-Zammit may require significant development before he’s ready for regular-season NFL action, there are benefits to having a player who has gone through the International Player Pathway program.
Teicher reported that this season, the NFL granted each team a 17th spot on their practice squad reserved for an international player. Additionally, teams can promote this player to the active gameday roster up to three times during the season.
One potential path for Rees-Zammit to see playing time and secure a spot on the 53-man roster could be through his ability to return kickoffs.
The NFL recently implemented new kickoff rules aimed at reducing injuries and encouraging more returns. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 194 pounds, Rees-Zammit’s size and speed make him an intriguing option as a return specialist.
Furthermore, the Chiefs have openings in their running back corps, with only Isiah Pacheco boasting significant experience at the NFL level, while Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon are free agents.
By offering Rees-Zammit a multi-year deal with guaranteed money, the Chiefs are signaling a long-term investment in his potential contributions. This suggests that head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach see him as a player capable of making a meaningful impact in the future.
