Louis Rees-Zammit: Kansas City Chiefs confirm deal for former Wales rugby star

Louis Rees-Zammit has taken a giant step closer to realising his NFL dreams by signing for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Former Wales rugby star announced his decision to leave rugby union in January and has since impressed the Chiefs during his time on the NFL's international player pathway, with running back and wide receiver his designated positions.

The Chiefs said on their official website: "The Kansas City Chiefs made an international splash on Friday with the addition of former European rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit to the roster."

The 23-year-old, who visited several NFL franchises, including the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos, said in a video posted by the Chiefs on X that he had "just signed and can't wait to go".

Rees-Zammit's next goal is to win a place on the Chiefs' final roster for the new season, joining their star players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce in targeting a third successive Super Bowl.

The former Gloucester, Wales and British and Irish Lions wing stunned the world of rugby in January by quitting the sport in an attempt to secure a contract with an NFL team in 2024.

That dream moved a step closer when he impressed during last week's pro day that forms part of the international player pathway.

The Chiefs added: "Rees-Zammit participated in the international player pathway program workout earlier this month, which provided the former rugby star with an opportunity to show NFL scouts what he could do.

"His workout included a 4.44-second 40-yard dash, which would have ranked fifth among tailbacks at the 2024 NFL scouting combine."

Additional reporting by Press Association.