The talented Louis Rees-Zammit has formalized his return to rugby, after a brief stint in American football, by joining the Bristol Bears. The 24-year-old player, with 32 international appearances for Wales, made the decision in January 2024 to leave rugby to participate in the NFL International Player Pathway Program. After signing first for the Kansas City Chiefs and then for the Jacksonville Jaguars, he failed to establish himself in either team, opting to return to his origins.
- Wales’ new coach, Tandy, expresses surprise at Rees-Zammit’s return.
- Rugby star Rees-Zammit ends his NFL dream.
Rees-Zammit commented on the club’s website: “I want to excite the fans, create exciting moments and help people fall in love with the game. I am excited to return to rugby at a club that demands those values.”Bristol Bears was the obvious choice for me.
Louis Rees-Zammit
Pat Lam, Bristol’s director of rugby, stated: “He has the motivation and ambition to be one of the best players in the world’s three-quarter line, and his goals align perfectly with our ambitions as a club.” “At just 24 years old, we know the athlete and competitor he is. The way we play and the way he wants to play fit perfectly, and we are looking forward to working with him when he joins the group tomorrow.” Bristol will begin their season against the Sale Sharks in the Premiership Rugby Cup on September 13th.Louis is a world-class player and we are delighted to welcome him back to rugby union and the Bears this season.
Pat Lam, Bristol rugby director
