Will Louis Rees-Zammit play for the Kansas City Chiefs? Former rugby union star set to join Super Bowl champions, Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce ahead of new season

Former Welsh rugby union star Louis Rees-Zammit is set to join the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL – but he still has a long way to go before fulfilling his dream.

The 23-year-old abandoned his career in rugby last year to pursue opportunities in American football and, after impressing in the international player pathway program, he’s agreed terms with the Chiefs.

Rees-Zammit is set to feature as a running back or as a receiver, and he has a chance of playing next season.

However, his pathway to playing alongside Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce isn’t as straightforward as it appears.

Will Rees-Zammit play for the Kansas City Chiefs?

In theory, he will because he’s agreed terms and signed a three-year contract.

However, the former Welsh rugby ace is joining 89 other players in the practice squad.

From that 90, 53 will make the final cut, and on game day, 46 players are in the team.

Therefore, he faces a lot of competition to make it into the squad and team ahead of the new season.

However, should the 23-year-old miss out on selection into the main roster, all is not lost, and he could still play in the NFL next season for the Chiefs.

This is because teams in the NFL will be eligible to elevate one international practice player to the active roster three times.

So even if Rees-Zammit doesn’t make the final 53, he could still play three NFL matches as a promoted international player.

Even if he doesn’t make it this season, Rees-Zammit has been backed to have a huge career in the NFL.

A representative from his new agency, Roc Nations Sports, said: “Roc Nation is thrilled to represent Louis.

“He’s a dynamic athlete with a compelling story. We are honoured to be part of Louis’ journey to achieve his dream of playing in the NFL after already establishing an illustrious rugby career.

“I am personally excited to work with Louis on this endeavour. With his athleticism, size, speed and work ethic, the sky is the limit.

“I look forward to watching Louis join an NFL roster and thrive throughout this upcoming season.”