Source: Chiefs to sign rugby star Rees-Zammit

Adam Teicher, ESPN Staff WriterMar 28, 2024, 11:38 AM ET
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The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to contract terms with European rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit, a source confirmed, giving the team another potential offensive threat.

The Chiefs will look at Rees-Zammit at running back and perhaps wide receiver. His biggest immediate impact could come on special teams and particularly as a return specialist under the NFL’s new kickoff format.

Rees-Zammit, 23, announced in January that he would attempt to play in the NFL. He participated in the NFL’s International Player Pathway pro day last week and ran a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash. Rees-Zammit, who is from Wales, then made visits to a handful of teams before agreeing to contract terms with the Chiefs.

This season marks the first time that each team will have a 17th roster spot on the practice squad specifically available for an international player. Teams also are permitted to elevate an international practice squad player to the active roster a maximum of three times throughout the season, increasing opportunities for players to develop and get a chance to play.

Teams also receive one training camp roster exemption for a qualifying international player.

The news of Rees-Zammit’s agreement with the Chiefs was first reported by Bleacher Report.