Ex-Wales ace Louis set for key NFL date
WELSH rugby bosses are likely to be tuned in to events in America later this month as Louis Rees-Zammit faces his NFL D-day.
The ex-Wales wing’s potentially decisive trial date has been scheduled for March 20, when he will perform in front of scouts from across the NFL.
The 23-year-old has already been impressing coaches on the International Player Pathway programme in Florida and will showcase all he has learned in little more than a fortnight.
Rees-Zammit and his fellow athletes will take part in the pro day at the University of South Florida.
He will be tested on his athletic traits, including a 40-yard dash, weightlifting strength, agility and will also be running routes in his bid to show he can become a wide receiver or running back. It will be his first opportunity to perform in front of scouts, who have already been enquiring about him and his fellow hopefuls.
NFL academy coach Steve Hagen said: “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’.”
Rees-Zammit said: “The end game in terms of time is getting closer. I’m pumped. I’m ready.”
A successive trial could see ReesZammit snapped up by one of the sport’s powerhouses.
But if he fails to land a deal there is a possibility he could head back to rugby – and that is bound to alert Wales boss Warren Gatland and a host of club coaches who would be keen to acquire his services.
The Welshman has already made an impression on his coaches and fellow hopefuls, previously winning the in-house award for athlete of the week. IPP strength and conditioning coach Kevin Heiberger said: “From a speed dynamic standpoint, Louis does things that are extremely difficult that he makes look natural.”
Rees-Zammit 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.
He said: “I love the warm weather. “I haven’t got a preference. But 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.”