Louis Rees-Zammit’s surprising shift to American football, particularly his move to the NFL’s International Player Pathway, has stirred widespread interest on the eve of the Six Nations. This move, from a rising rugby star to potentially making waves in the NFL, has prompted questions about the 22-year-old Wales wing’s decision to transition into a running back or wide receiver.
While Rees-Zammit’s journey will be closely followed, there are other rugby players like Harry Mallinder and Darragh Leader, aspiring kickers or punters, who are also venturing into the NFL. However, two lesser-known rugby players, George Smith and Travis Clayton, may have unique opportunities to make an impact in the NFL. Smith, a towering lock standing at 6ft 9in and weighing approximately 19st 11lb, and Clayton, a robust wing at just under 6ft 7in and 20st 12lb, are set to learn the ropes of protecting quarterbacks as offensive linemen.
The offensive line position, known for requiring immense power, mobility, and understanding of play patterns, has been a successful transition for rugby players in the past, exemplified by Jordan Mailata’s journey from rugby league to starting in Super Bowl LVII for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Rees-Zammit, with his “average” NFL wide receiver build at 6ft 3in and 13st 12lb, is expected to bring unique qualities, including exceptional speed, to the NFL. Former NFL player Osi Umenyiora compares Rees-Zammit’s physique and profile to notable wide receivers like Julio Jones, suggesting that his speed and measurable attributes make him a promising prospect.
Umenyiora emphasizes the significance of “Planet Theory” in evaluating offensive linemen, highlighting the scarcity of individuals above 6ft 6in. Both Smith and Clayton fall into this category, and Umenyiora believes that players of their size, when trained and equipped with intricate knowledge, have a higher chance of success in the NFL.
Rees-Zammit’s transition will involve gaining muscle and weight to adapt to the explosive lifts typical in the NFL, according to Umenyiora. The initial phase of the NFL’s International Player Pathway involves a rigorous 10-week training camp in Florida, demanding long days of training, video analysis, theory meetings, and physical conditioning. This immersive experience aims to prepare players mentally and physically for the challenges ahead.
While the journey for kickers like Mallinder and Leader can be isolating, Umenyiora acknowledges the pressure on them to deliver when the game is on the line. The punter position, offering a potentially easier path to success, may be a more feasible route for them.
Umenyiora concludes that playing even a single snap in the NFL through the International Player Pathway is a significant achievement, requiring exceptional adaptability, mental resilience, and a unique skill set. As these rugby players venture into the NFL, their accomplishments in the rugby world become secondary, emphasizing the demands and opportunities presented by ‘Planet Theory’ in the pursuit of success in American football.
