Louis Rees-Zammit confirms next move two weeks after quitting NFL and returning to rugby

Louis Rees-Zammit has officially joined Bristol Bears for the new season, a fortnight after revealing that he had given up on his NFL dream. Earlier this month, the Welshman confirmed that he was returning to rugby after failing to break through across the Atlantic. He was initially snapped up by the Kansas City Chiefs but did not play a single minute for the four-time Super Bowl winners.

Rees-Zammit went on to join the Jacksonville Jaguars but spent the entire 2024 season as a member of their practice squad. He eventually gave up on his NFL ambitions in order to return to rugby ahead of the new campaign. Now, it has been confirmed the 24-year-old will be heading back to England's top flight.

He has signed for Bristol Bears and will link up with his new team-mates this weekend. The move was officially confirmed on Thursday evening, with Rees-Zammit saying that it was a no-brainer to join last season's play-off semi-finalists.

"Bristol Bears was the obvious choice for me," he said. "The style of rugby the team play, all about entertaining the fans and growing the game, perfectly aligns to how I want to play and how I express myself on and off the field.

"I want to get fans out of their seats, create exciting moments and help people fall in the love with the game. I'm excited to return to rugby at a club that demands those values.

"I'm looking forward to working with my teammates, Pat Lam and the coaches and all the backroom team to bring success to the Bears."

Director of rugby Pat Lam added: "Louis is a world-class player and we're thrilled to welcome him back to rugby union and to the Bears this season.

"Although we have a small squad, we've been building quality depth and experience across the team, bringing in players who can cover multiple positions to help us take that next step in the PREM and in Europe.

"Louis offers exactly that to our dynamic back three, with his ability and desire to play both full back and wing for the Bears. He has the drive and ambition to be one of the best back-three players in the world 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 seamlessly together and we're looking forward to working with him when he joins the group tomorrow."

It comes after Rees-Zammit described his short-lived NFL career as a 'fantastic experience' while underlining his excitement at returning to the sport he loves most.

Confirming his change of plans earlier this month, he said on Instagram: "I've got an exciting announcement to make! I've decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby.

"It's been a fantastic experience but it's time to come home. I've decided that this is the best time to make this decision to give myself time to get everything in place for next season.

"There's only one thing that's on my mind, that's coming back to rugby and doing what I do best. I can't explain how excited I am! ! There'll be more news to come soon but for now, see you soon rugby fans."

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