Excitement is building as Louis Rees-Zammit’s pivotal NFL trial is set for March 20, a date that could potentially alter the course of the Wales rugby international’s career. The 23-year-old, currently making waves in the International Player Pathway programme in Florida, is poised to showcase his skills in front of NFL scouts at the University of South Florida’s ‘pro day.’
During this event, Rees-Zammit and his fellow athletes will undergo rigorous testing, including a 40-yard dash, weight lifting demonstrations, agility assessments, and running specific “routes.” The aim is to prove his versatility as a potential wide receiver or running back. This marks the first chance for the talented athletes to shine in front of scouts who have already expressed keen interest in Rees-Zammit and his peers.
Steve Hagen, an NFL academy coach, emphasized the significance of this opportunity, stating, “They are getting their chance, their audition, for the NFL. If they show up and show off in that combine, then there are going to be personnel that go ‘Wow, look at that guy.'”
Expressing his eagerness, Rees-Zammit stated, “The end game in terms of time is getting closer. I’m pumped. I’m ready.”
Having already left a lasting impression on coaches and fellow hopefuls, Rees-Zammit was awarded the title of athlete of the week in the program. Kevin Heiberger, the IPP strength and conditioning coach, commended the Welshman’s speed, remarking, “From a speed dynamic standpoint, Louis does things that are extremely difficult that he makes look natural.”
The former Wales winger sensationally quit rugby in January, leaving with immediate effect to head to Florida and start a 10-week training camp that will decide if he gets a shot with a team
Speaking about the differences between rugby and NFL training, he tells the programme: “Rugby is definitely more of a team game, it involves the whole team to get around you and give you that support whereas here there is a lot of individualised training and focussing on yourself. You have got a role to play and it is all on you to make all that happen. It is very different training, but I am absolutely loving it.”
While he admits he would love to play at any team, he revealed his preferred destination would be somewhere in the sun.
“I love the warm weather,” he said. “I haven’t got a preference, I’d take anywhere to be honest. But obviously here in Florida, there are three teams that have got the weather. Any of them would do, Miami is probably my favourite destination, but I would take anywhere. I’m just out here training hard and seeing what happens.”
