Rees-Zammit returns to rugby: Star signing for Bristol Bears

Louis Rees-Zammit returns to rugby after his time in American football, sealing his signing for the Bristol Bears. The 24-year-old player, with 32 appearances for the Wales national team, announced in January 2024 his decision to leave rugby to join the NFL International Player Pathway Program. Initially, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs and then with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he did not manage to stand out in either of the teams, opting to return to his roots.

• Wales’ new coach, Tandy, admits surprise at Rees-Zammit’s return.

Rees-Zammit stated on the club’s website: “Bristol Bears was the obvious choice for me.”

I want to excite the fans, create exciting moments and help people fall in love with the game. I’m excited to return to rugby at a club that demands those values.

Louis Rees-Zammit

Previously, the talented winger scored 42 tries in 77 matches for Gloucester, and his try count for Wales is 14. Bristol’s rugby director, Pat Lam, commented: “Louis is a world-class player and we are delighted to welcome him back to rugby union and the Bears this season.”

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.

Pat Lam

Bristol’s season will begin against the Sale Sharks in the Premiership Rugby Cup on September 13th.