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Louis Rees-Zammit rugby return: 'It's time to come home'
By Ian Cameron
Louis Rees-Zammit has sensationally confirmed he is quitting the NFL and returning to rugby, bringing an end to his short-lived attempt to switch codes.
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“I’ve got an exciting announcement to make! I’ve decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby!” the 24-year-old posted on Instagram on Thursday night. “It’s been a great 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,” he concluded.
It’s been a whirlwind 18-month period for LRZ.
In January of last year he stunned rugby fans when he retired from the sport to join the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program, training at the IMG Academy in Florida.
The former Gloucester winger clocked 4.43 seconds in the 40-yard dash at his March pro day and signed with the star-studded Kansas City Chiefs later that month.
He featured in three pre-season games for the reigning Super Bowl champions, carrying six times for 22 yards and taking a single reception for three yards, but he did not make the final 53-man roster and was released in August.
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He was quickly picked by the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad. He took the No. 84 at the struggling franchise and switched from running back to his preferred position of wide receiver.
However, he’s now decided to call time on the NFL to prepare himself for the new rugby season, with club pre-season in the northern hemisphere kicking into gear.
Where it is he is headed in rugby, for now, remains to be seen. He’ll certainly have plenty of offers on the table.
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