In theory you would think, Rees Zamit is fast and has a shot at making it. Problem is that the competition is so tough. There are dozens of colleges in the US, who each have several great athletes, who have been playing since they were kids. So he has a sizable mountain to climb to make it. Good luck to him, the odds are against him
@@tompattinson5784 American football looks simple, but they make it so complicated. And he's not used to it, I assume. So he is unlikely to succeed, but we'll see
Don’t think he has a chance for a full contract. He’s quick. But he’s not living breathing NFL and all it’s astonishing complexity and skill. Good luck tho.
Don’t think he has a chance for a full contract. He’s quick. But he’s not living breathing NFL and all it’s astonishing complexity and skill. Good luck tho.
Best of luck to him. Young and taking and opportunity - you've got to love that. Enjoyed your take on it....especially with the RWC being in the US in 2031.
I wish him all the best and i hope he really does well. Saying that, rugby players tend to struggle in the NFL or not even get picked. I fear he would be wasted as a player in the US.
Probably the best chance for him is on special teams, at least to begin with. A player who could return punts and also tackles well would be of interest. It will be hard but there are occasional cases of players who didn’t play high school football making it in the NFL. Also, isolated cases of players who didn’t even play in college. So difficult but not impossible.
Totally agree mate. He's not going to be bringing an army of fans back with him as he puts it. All the positives mentioned in this video are just wishful thinking and completely unrealistic. I really don't understand this decision.
@@matmul4850 Jim Hamilton said a while back that he bumped into LRZ in Dubai during the season and that LRZ was wearing all the Hermes and Dolce And Gabanna, just a linen jacket and shirtless underneath, said that LRZ was all about the champagne lifestyle. Same with Christian Wade who did exactly nothing in the US but loved it because he got to be the star of his own little show for a while. Phrases like 'Bright Lights, Big City' "Stars in their Eyes" .. is generally what this is about.
I think you're looking through rose tinted glasses to some extent Tim from a rugby viewpoint. If he's successful, he'll be known as the guy who left rugby because NFL is more exciting. If he fails, the perception will be that the best from rugby isn't good enough for the NFL. This is a lose/lose situation for rugby.
He's a pro sportsman. As much as I wish him well at making a big step, if he gets anywhere near making it, or not, and if he then comes back to rugby, I'm sure it's being well documented - He's a canny lad. My worry is - If he makes it, it'll tell the NFL teams (average value $5.1Bn Dollar) that there are players to look at recruiting in rugby.
As an american (South African dad) who grew up playing both rugby and American football, the difference in between these two sports is very vast. Some can do it, Paul Lasike, Jordan Mialata, but not many can… good luck to the bloke
What's brave about it? He's 22. If he doesn't hack in America he knows he can walk straight back into UK Rugby as a 23, 24, 25, 26 year old or whatever. He's got the vacuous bimbo girlfriend and is chasing the money. Nothing brave about that.
He'll go from being viewed as a world class talent and a future Lion to being a little fish in a big pond. But if he's OK with that, he might really enjoy the move. Wales will be sad though.
If he only kinda makes it, he'll make way more money than he ever can playing rugby. Good luck to him. In 20 years time, no one will remember the kid. If he stays in rugby, he could be a legend in his own time. I know what i'd choose to do.
Gutted to see him leave Glaws but this isn’t a reflection on Rugby Union if anyone was offered an opportunity to earn 10 times their salary then why wouldn’t they?
It will be a tough path. He will be competing other elite athletes who have been playing the sport for many years. Football at the NFL level is a very steep learning curve.
As a South African.. I remember when Springbok fly half, Naas Botha , was on trial American NFL team Dallas Cowboys in the eighties... said was a big adjustment
Totally agree with you about Louis. He’s taking a punt and good luck to him. He’ll be back for Wales at some point. The Telegraph is part of the problem in rugby, too many old farts with outdated and narrow minded views and resistant to change.
Well, I haven't seen this one coming! I had a 5 year stint with AF, whereas I've been playing rugby for 20+ years now. It's vastly different! Those guys have been playing AF since they were kids and they developed instincts that can't be coaching in a few seasons. It might be a very tough nut to crack for LRZ, even if he's a top athlete. I guess we'll just have to wait and see!
I see a forgotten man from English Rugby, Harry Mallinder is also part of that 16 player International Player Pathway group. Although he has been selected as a Kicker/Punter.
As a Welshman this is devastating. We were already in huge trouble. We’ve lost just about all our British lions. Josh Adam’s about only one left. Anything better than wooden spoon is a great 6 nations campaign
You made the same mistake I did up until last season : I was taking everything personally on behalf of Wales. But there is no Wales team anymore. Not really. There used to be pride in the jersey, but now it's all about self. There was a time when people would give their all to wear that jersey, and then give everything on the field to wear it to victory, but then the imports and team jumping journeymen came. Now the national sides, at least in the UK, are just a bigger club side, rather than national teams.There IS no sense of national pride, not within the system. Favouritism, nepotism and player poaching reign supreme. So much so that I ve even started referring to Ireland as Ireland & Friends, to reflect the current state of the game, and Scotland and England aren't too far off.
Interesting case. LRZ is obviously (along with Kurt-Lee Arendse and Marky Mark of Australia, who’s bolting for league) one of the game’s top young wingers. But the learning curve to be an NFL star is extremely steep. He will have the fitness, of course (few NFL players would cut it in rugby). Actually besides wide receiver, running back or kick returner, Rees-Zammit’s chances might be as good or better as a defensive back, with his size most likely as a free safety. (A cover cornerback spot would be trickier with no experience in the game; a free safety can operate a bit like a football - soccer, that is - sweeper.) His speed and cover tackling skills would translate well. But still, there is that steep learning curve. You’re right, though, that he could always return to rugby, and I like your positive spin on the story. And for all the difficult challenge he faces, my Chicago Bears might be able to use him if they don’t give up on Justin Fields….I could explain that in detail, but don’t want to complicate things for your rugby-exclusive subscriber base…..Anyway, really glad you took on this topic. It is a talker, and I liked your deeper dive….and even I wasn’t aware of the free roster spot for international portal players in the NFL!
Think you are right, I was always thinking offence, but besides a running back, which I’m not so sure about, defence would be a better fit. I was thinking line backer but maybe free safety could work. However hate to be a hater by he has a very high mountain to climb, with absolute killers gunning for his spot. I don’t think he gets off a practice spot, maybe special team punt returner at most, but will be happy to be proved wrong.
Naas Botha played for the Dallas Cowboys in 1983, starting team, as a specialist kicker before returning to South Africa to play for the Springboks again.
As a big fan of both sports, it honestly would not surprise me if this is just the start of a trend. All you have to do is take a look at the difference in practice schedules, games and general mileage on the body in both sports and the decision suddenly appears a lot more reasonable. Regardless of whether LRZ makes an NFL roster, he’s pretty much a lock for a spot on a practice squad as part of the international player program. Just doing that he will be in line to earn at least what he would’ve got playing at Gloucester. On top of this, it would not surprise me in the slightest if as part of it he’s signed some kind of documentary deal which would be a nice sweetener on top. By doing all this now, he probably looks after his health in the long term, and even if he changes his mind or it doesn’t work out, he probably walks back into the Wales squad next World Cup cycle. We’ve seen All Blacks go off to play in Japan for a couple of years in between world cups, it wouldn’t surprise me if moving forward we see more world class players choosing to give the NFL a go for a couple of years in between WCs.
As ever a great watch. As a Welsh fan I’m absolutely gutted. With where the Welsh regions are at, with Feyi-Waboso’s decision, with the squad that we’ve announced for the six nations. I’m not feeling positive.
I was listening to this on the way back to my house excited to watch the Eagles Bucs wildcard game, and half way through you randomly just dropped the outcome... Cheers Tim. Guess I'm watching something else now 😂😭
I think it's an exciting opportunity for the bloke. 22 years old - no better time to give it a go. Worst he'll do is grow his brand a bit and come back to rugby at 25 to bumper contract offers.
Tim's use of statistics outlined the monumental challenge facing LRZ and it would be an achievement to make a practice squad, never mind suit up on game day as part of a 48-man game day roster. I think his best position would be wide receiver or special teams, possibly a punt/kickoff returner or gunner, where he can use his size, strength, and speed in a way that wouldn't see him hampered by lack of familiarity with the 'route tree' and the intricacies of route running and body position when making sideline catches. It would be a brilliant achievement if he could do it and a fantastic story to follow, regardless of which NFL franchise - if any - you support.
I wouldn’t wish having him be a gunner on him, For those unfamiliar with American football, 🏈 the gunner is a special teams player who rushes downfield on a kickoff to get to the returner first. Speed is important, as well as tackling ability, but it’s a suicide mission!
If your a Welsh fan, it's horrible timing. Haven't had a great time in the 6 nations for last few years and one of your youthful stars drops out less then a month out? No one in Wales could be happy with this and try to say good luck to him.
I'm in Wales and a lifelong rugby player / fan and I say good luck to him. We have the players we have, and the team is bigger than any one of them, plus we've plenty of other selection issues and rugby problems to worry about. If he were my son I'd be backing him in this all the way.
Tim, Love your positivity and realism concerning all aspects of rugby. You are spot on, as you generally are. Let him go and try. The worst that can happen is he returns to rugby. Not sure if he's "turning his back", merely as a young man he's trying to find another code to challenge himself. Good luck to him!
The NFL is overflowing with players that have years and years of experience at what is a very very different game. Besides that Rees Zammit has, what will be classed as a perfectly ordinary turn of pace in the NFL. However if they are going to pay him a boatload of cash to chance his arm, then good luck to him.
I usually agree with your thoughts and comments around rugby, we both think the same way however, on this occasion I think you and Louis are wrong. Stay in Rugby Louis, rugby needs young, gifted men like you in this day and age, Wales need you & I'm English and Gloucester needs you. All I'm thinking about are the chances of making it because I think for sportsmen like Louis, whilst money is important because it's your job, the WIN is what it's all about at the end of the day. When and if you come back to rugby in a couple of years the game will have changed, and other talented players will have taken your spot...you won't just get back in a team. You've made your decision though and I wish you all the very best
Really enjoyed this video Tim. Informative and entertaining. Super quick with uploading after the news broke 👍 You touched on the player welfare of rugby vs NFL and could even have expanded on the issue of head trauma. If LRZ can earn good money for a few years in a sport with better head protection, then to me that seems like a really smart move.
Been here before with the likes of Hayden Smith, Alex Gray, Christian Wade etc. Wish him luck but will probably be back in a year looking to make the Wales 6 Nations and B&I Lions Squads!
Even as a welshman i say go for it LRZ. Got a pair of balls to try it. Probably has the right character to do it too. Good luck! (Just make sure you come back lol 😅)
The only South-African in the NFL Dieter Eiselen, played rugby for one of the top rugby schools in SA, Paul Roos, it the has produced more Springboks then any other school. His dream was to be one of them but when it became clear he wasn't going to make it as a professional rugby player he switched to weightlifting, in his final year of high school he moved to the US and played one year of High school football before being offered a full scholarship to Yale. He then declared for the draft but wasn't selected, he was later signed as a free agent with the bears and actually made the team, he now plays for the Texans He isn't a superstar or even a regular starter but a failed rugby player was able to make it into the NFL, and then you have Wade who never got past a training squad. I think these are two different sports that require completely different athletes
Hi presenter. What is LRZ’s 100m sprint? I thought it was in the 10+ second bracket? I like your thoughts of him suiting the specialist kick returner. He could also be the punter tbh…? It’s exciting for him.
My son has been trying to get into the NFL the last couple of years since graduating college, and has played in the CFL. The challenge LRZ faces is enormous! I wonder if he will try and play TE rather than WR, he would need to bulk up a bit but may be a better fit?
He would need to bulk up a hell of a lot to play tight end, possibly 50lbs, and would still be considered slightly short for the position. The best current player is Travis Kelce, 2 inches taller than LRZ, and 250lbs, 54 pounds heavier than the Welshman.
He's too short to play TE effectively. He would also need to be able to block, which is extremely difficult, not only because of the size of the D-line men in his path, but also knowing how to read what the defence is giving is alot more important. 4-3 zone is vastly different to 3-4, let alone all safety reads over the top.. I feel like FB/WR hybrid would suit him best. I don't think he has the snap to run drag or zip routes, but go routes, post or play action schemes to open the field up for other WR options could work in his favour.. Who knows, butit definitely will be interesting to see..
Tight end? No way. The average NFL tight end is about 193 centimeters (6’4”), so LRZ is close, height wise. But they weigh 115 kg or more or 250 pounds (about 18 stones for you Brits). They have major blocking assignments both on running plays and in pass protection. Rees-Zammit’s frame wouldn’t handle bulking up that much, and if he could it would sacrifice some of the pace that probably makes him somewhat attractive to NFL scouts. And tight ends are part of the offensive line, and while in many schemes they catch many passes and are a key offensive weapon (Kansas City with Kelce, in college ranks Cade Stover at Ohio State), they are more like part of the tight five in rugby. No, tight end isn’t a good idea for him.
Different NFL teams have very different expectations of their TE; some are predominantly blocking, and some are big-body receivers, so clearly, my hypothesis is team and scheme-dependent. TEs are really hard to recruit, which is probably why the good ones have such long careers. Teams always want to convert big WRs or lighter Linemen (or basketball players!) to play there. You mention Kelce, good case in point, he played QB and got converted. The things LRZ has going for him vs other players potentially converting to TE: He will be much more used to physical confrontation than college WR, so taking on blocking assignments mentally will not be an obstacle. He will have excellent hands (have you ever played catch with an OL!?!). The very different physical demands of rugby, where he is probably covering 8km a game, will have kept his playing weight low, and he will have an opportunity to try and put on (a lot) of muscle. That being said, it's still highly unlikely, but worth putting into the mix, I thought.
Good luck to him, it will be a huge mountain to climb. Forget RB, body wise he would be WR on offense or returns/bomb squad on special teams. Comparable odds to an NFL player making the ABs.
A bit gutted for us, as we needed LRZ. Pob lwc iddo fo, but it will be a very hard road. The level of athleticism of American players is very high, and the competition is fierce. The chances for injury are also very high. I hope he comes back in one piece.
Hey Matt They are very athletic, but just watch Baltimore if you want examples of how to tackle. Corners in the NFL almost never use their arms or nearly always overcommit if presented with a situation where they are needed other than pass coverage. Even the Safeties these days seem to have lost their edge
Don’t fool yourself about the “better head protection” of an NFL helmet. Despite efforts to stop it (newer rules banning “targeting” enforced in colleges and high schools), players still tend to use the helmet as a weapon while making tackles. The risk of concussions (and the long-term aftermath, especially CTE) is exponentially higher in American football as the concussion protocols are significantly weaker and less consistently applied.
Well that is a surprise. Bit left field but hey give him a bit of credit to want to do something different. No what if’s down this path. Also got to give Glos some credit for releasing him so that he can fit in with the NFL season. Show them what you can do young man.😊
I suspect the NFL maybe trying to extend again beyond the US. I wonder how a prime Jonah Lomu would have faired. At the other end of the spectrum, I remember Naas Botha trying out as a kicker for one of NFL teams
Im Welsh and it sucks he's not in the 2024 six nations but I cannot hate on him, he's young and following his dreams. He has already played for his country and played for the lions. Wish him the best
Best of luck to him, but I fear this is a shortsighted mistake. The US is filled with dudes with his exact skill set who came up playing football, and don’t need international vetting. When he comes back to rugby I hope he still has time to make that next World Cup squad you mentioned Tim.
With this new news I think people outside of the US are seeing why it is so difficult for rugby to break into the US in terms of trying to keep rugby talent playing rugby but also to get crossover athletes playing the sport
He's a special talent, versatile and what a great opportunity. Running back would be interesting for sure! Not sure Wade was ever the same level, is this the first time a top elite player has made the switch?
He's not a 'special talent'. He's a fit, young rugby player trainedand brought up in the sport, nurtured by school, club and country. There are dozens, if not hundreds of rugby players past and present, every bit as good as RZ who chose not to go down this path. Have look at his girlfriend, his instagram and his whole shallow persona. This is about money and fame nothing more.
Tbh the skills in rugby vs nfl are not wholly transferable though his speed will be an asset and his ability to hit space. Id imagine he might manage to get a roster spot in the NFL returning punts and kicks
I don't think code switches are easy in any team sport, especially when you compete with scores of players that have built-up experiences over years. NFL play isn't about stamina, it's about targeted brut force and short periods of highly elevated running skills which take totally different training and mindset.Having to run around the field and play rugby for 120 minutes wouldn't suit NFL temperament players. I guess we'll never know though, given there's not enough money in rugby to attract top NFL players and my opinion is purely based upon what I've heard American football player's say about rugby.
The only thing that would increase interest in rugby in the USA would be American teams being extremely successful in the sport -- particularly at international level. One Welsh rugby player -- however talented -- going to America and disappearing without trace in the NFL system is not going to do anything.
Interesting take. 2 things come to mind : Last Chance U regarding how american football is sort of a life preserver to get some education and a remote chance to earn big bucks in the NFL, great series ( Last chance U basketball is just as good ). And the recent rise of Francis Ngannou in boxing, who managed to switch from MMA to boxing and wasn't too shabby vs a very average Tyson Fury, who's a current world champion, and is going to fight Anthony Joshua, a former 2-time world champion.
Good luck, but I’d be interested to know who he spoke to and who advised him. He faces an almost insurmountable challenge, especially when you consider how many native Americans fail to make it. However, I think you have a point that any success is success and if he returns to rugby in a few years time that could spark interest for Americans in our sport. Bon chance!
This reminds me of when Jonathan Davies switched codes, in Wales the 💩 really hit the fan. For LRZ this is a huge gamble because there is fierce competition in the NFL. He’ll be up against college guys who’ve played it their whole lives, and that’s before he faces the professionals.
Zammit actually does have decent NFL speed. He runs a 4.3 40 meter dash, which is good in the NFL, and at 6'3, he has measurables that get guys drafted alone, discounting skill.
The negatives are mainly for him. It's such a different game. Unfortunately I can't see him making it. Maybe he is just going for that practice squad paycheck be even that isn't guaranteed.
To play as a wide receiver in the NFL you have to be truly brilliant. Wish Louis Reece-Zammit the absolute best. The NFL want American Football to be watched globally and that is why they want Zammit and other sportsman from Europe and the southern hemisphere to “try out” for the NFL. They won’t necessarily make it but they will attract the armchair viewer to watch the NFL. Excellent video by the way 👍
How the hell can they expect anyone to watch 'globally' when it's so ridiculous. The stopping, the starting, the OTT spectacle of the whole thing. The padding, the helmets .... it's a joke. They've tried to sell it on this side of the Atlantic and it's gone down like a lead balloon. Recruiting one 22 year old Gloucester Rugby player isn't going to 'attract' any armchair viewers in the UK. We'll we watching our own national sports including Rugby - sans helmets, padding and razzmatazz, just all round strength and athleticism. And there will be plenty of new young Welsh players coming through to replace RZ. Just check out Ospreys' youngsters for starters. Hopefully they will have more commitment and loyalty to country and club than he has.
Didn't see that coming, Wales rugby is in complete disarray at the moment its sad. Good luck to Louis, its tough to break into the NFL Christian Wade struggled.
He was a nothing! Played 3 snaps in a preseason game. It's an advertising ploy by the NFL. That's all. Mailata was different his genetics were freakish and worth putting in the effort to get him up to speed. LRZ is bang average genetically in comparison.
I have played both sports and what makes you good at one is not necessarily that will make you good at the other. The guy is a freak on the rugby pitch, but will have a bullseye on his chest if he ever sees the field in competitive fashion. Running back? No way if he's smart. They probably have the shortest NFL careers. Receiver? More likely but if I were him, I'd be practicing my punting and place kicking as he's more likely to see the field as one of those. The trick will be to recognize his dream, monetize his dream whilst maintaining his health... I wish him the absolute best and at 22 why not. The positive side is that if he ever does have to make a tackle, he'll be the only one in the league to do it properly...would probably make the highlight reel.
Speed with those pads will be a problem for him I think.. The best Wide Receiver ever (Jerry Rice) was very slow without pads, but pads did not slow him down. LZR has ALOT to learn.
Sorry to disagree Tim @eggchasers but I think if he has any chance at all of making it it will be at kick/punt returner. WR is too specialised a position for a rookie to step into in my opinion.
Yes, the new skill he’d need to learn to be an NFL wideout would be running the different routes wide receivers learn (posts, slants, crossing patterns, outs, corner routes, digs, and so on. Learning an NFL playbook is a chore for any player, but besides the quarterbacks, wide receivers probably have the most difficult study task.
I suppose it depends how much he loves the game (if he makes it). If he makes it on a practice squad and he's dedicated to learning the craft. It's not impossible for someone to learn and grow in that kind of environment. He'd have to absolutely love it though.
New challenges, more power to him. Though, as a Canadian, there is a number of other countries I would rather go to than the states, although the money in the NFL is just stupid. Didn't even watch the video (sorry E.C.) but tight end is just out of the question. Wide receiver or defensive back. More likely taxi squad foreverrrrr . . .
He's too short to play TE effectively. He would also need to be able to block, which is extremely difficult, not only because of the size of the D-line men in his path, but also knowing how to read what the defence is giving, is alot more important. 4-3 zone is vastly different to 3-4, let alone all safety reads over the top.. I feel like a FB/WR hybrid H-back would suit him best. I don't think he has the snap to run drag or zip routes. Go routes, post, or play action schemes to open the field up for other WR options could work in his favour though. Who knows, but it definitely will be interesting to see.. I wouldve loved to see Bundee Aki have a go at RB for power plays & goal line offense. Caleb Clarke perhaps too, not too sure..
Talking to my brother who is more into American Football than myself, we think he would make a good cornerback. He has shown great defensive work and also has good pace.
It is by far the most difficult position to play outside of quarterback. Cornerbacks have to have incredible lateral speed, quick-twitch and they have to be smart. They have to read the offense, read routes. It's just such a difficult job. Perhaps free safety or strong safety would suit him better on the defensive side of the ball.
Nothing but the best for the young man but I do not see him making it. He would be best suited to wide receiver/corner back with his body shape. But those positions are so specialised it takes years to learn. That leaves running back and they prefer them short and thick or tall and still thick. Not a lanky build like his. But lets see. Or he could try out for punter, that is probably his best chance.
I was thinking the other day that LRZ is perhaps the worst possible signing a team could make. Hes the worst combination of big profile but rly not a valuable player. Firstly wingers are the least valuable players in rugby, and LRZ frankly isn’t that good winger.but he has a large profile and so is probably asking for a large play packet. Maybe no one was acc willing to give him the money he thought he could earn
Tell it to the All Blacks that Jonah Lomu, Joe Rokocoko, Jeff Wilson, Mark Talea, Julian Savea, Dougie Howlett etc were the least valuable players on their team. You are speaking from a British Isles perspective where the ball rarely reaches the winger and wingers are there to chase kicks and nothing more.
As a 49ers fan, I loved the Jarryd Hayne story. Bought the Jersey with his name on it. All too short lived but I willed him to get the ball every chance he got. LRZ is a 6N player than will attract some interest back and forth. This is a great story and fingers crossed for him
I, as I am sure many other are too, am perplexed by this move. For me, this is slightly different to the Christian Wade move as his international hopes were all but dead and buried and so his aspirations to try and be successful in the NFL could be respected, or at least understood. However, with so much potential ahead of Rees-Zammit and consistency at international level a certainty, this decision demonstrates a real air of arrogance and that he is almost superior to the game of Union. I hope I am wrong and that it more the case of a youthful and excited youngster wanting to take every opportunity he can and experience life to the full, but I also hope that it doesn't back fire for him and he is not underestimating the mammoth and significance of the task ahead of him. The US are a conveyor belt of supreme, athletic specimens.
Nonsense the boy is young and is trying something different while he's still has the energy to do so if it doesn't work then at least he tried rather living with the regret of never trying something different I don't see any arrogance in that
@@gunner4life568 Nonsense indeed. If you think this is about energy or regret then you are an idiot. This is about money first and foremost, secondly the sunshine lifestyle and shallow existence of so many of these so called 'sportsmen' (like Beckham) who think that because they can throw or kick a ball around entitles them to fame and wealth. He's a kid who got nurtured and nursed through his childhood and adolescence, via a state sponsored system and a club (Gloucester) and a nation (Wales). Now he's kicked both in the teeth, not to mention his sport ... to go and pursue big bucks on the other side of the Atlantic playing a fool's game.
I'm not Welsh but i just don't get your thinking. Yes, it's a great opportunity for Rees Zammit, but if he does well he won't be coming back to rugby union, if he doesn't know one week be attracted back to rugby to follow him and grow the sport. It's also not as though Wales have that many stars to choose from so i can't see this benefiting the sport in any way.
A couple of thoughts, and full disclosure, I'm Welsh: You could see something like this coming - LRZ has made no secret that he is ambitious and that rugby probably wasn't going to be enough for him longer term. He has spent at least one summer training at an American Football coaching facility (college level). His Dad played American Football and brought him up to love the game. So no surprise that, in his own words "It's about continuing his [Dad's] legacy and go beyond, making him proud. It's the sport he grew up loving. I want to do that and make him as proud as I can." Yes, the odds are stacked against him, but so what. The odds would always be zero if you didn't try at all. So good luck to him, I hope he succeeds, and even if he doesn't I hope he grows from the experience and doesn't come to regret his decision. Roughly midway between where I live and where LRZ played for Gloucester is the home of the SAS, and we all know what their motto is.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
In theory you would think, Rees Zamit is fast and has a shot at making it. Problem is that the competition is so tough. There are dozens of colleges in the US, who each have several great athletes, who have been playing since they were kids. So he has a sizable mountain to climb to make it. Good luck to him, the odds are against him
*I. Am. Melon……*
Yeah good luck to him but would be shocked if he made a regular season roster - he’s not going to make it as a WR that’s for sure
@@tompattinson5784 American football looks simple, but they make it so complicated. And he's not used to it, I assume. So he is unlikely to succeed, but we'll see
Don’t think he has a chance for a full contract. He’s quick. But he’s not living breathing NFL and all it’s astonishing complexity and skill. Good luck tho.
Don’t think he has a chance for a full contract. He’s quick. But he’s not living breathing NFL and all it’s astonishing complexity and skill. Good luck tho.
Best of luck to him. Young and taking and opportunity - you've got to love that.
Enjoyed your take on it....especially with the RWC being in the US in 2031.
I wish him all the best and i hope he really does well. Saying that, rugby players tend to struggle in the NFL or not even get picked.
I fear he would be wasted as a player in the US.
Thanks for the balanced informed explanation. Also the positivity. Finally good luck to him.
Probably the best chance for him is on special teams, at least to begin with. A player who could return punts and also tackles well would be of interest. It will be hard but there are occasional cases of players who didn’t play high school football making it in the NFL. Also, isolated cases of players who didn’t even play in college. So difficult but not impossible.
Appreciate your positive spin for the sport Tim, but I don't see how this isn't anything other for a negative for the sport
Totally agree mate. He's not going to be bringing an army of fans back with him as he puts it. All the positives mentioned in this video are just wishful thinking and completely unrealistic. I really don't understand this decision.
@@matmul4850 Jim Hamilton said a while back that he bumped into LRZ in Dubai during the season and that LRZ was wearing all the Hermes and Dolce And Gabanna, just a linen jacket and shirtless underneath, said that LRZ was all about the champagne lifestyle. Same with Christian Wade who did exactly nothing in the US but loved it because he got to be the star of his own little show for a while. Phrases like 'Bright Lights, Big City' "Stars in their Eyes" .. is generally what this is about.
@@powerbite92 Such a waste of talent.
Great video.
All things considered Valentines Homes from the NRL did well.
Well said. Just hope he doesn't get injured!
I think you're looking through rose tinted glasses to some extent Tim from a rugby viewpoint. If he's successful, he'll be known as the guy who left rugby because NFL is more exciting. If he fails, the perception will be that the best from rugby isn't good enough for the NFL. This is a lose/lose situation for rugby.
Agree. Its the worst decision possible, there's nothing good going to come from this imo.
Spot on
@@JenjenilouYou ever met the man…
He's a pro sportsman. As much as I wish him well at making a big step, if he gets anywhere near making it, or not, and if he then comes back to rugby, I'm sure it's being well documented - He's a canny lad.
My worry is - If he makes it, it'll tell the NFL teams (average value $5.1Bn Dollar) that there are players to look at recruiting in rugby.
exactly. same happened w mailata.
As an american (South African dad) who grew up playing both rugby and American football, the difference in between these two sports is very vast. Some can do it, Paul Lasike, Jordan Mialata, but not many can… good luck to the bloke
Will be interesting to see how he does, best of luck to him ! Incredible bravery to do it !
What's brave about it? He's 22. If he doesn't hack in America he knows he can walk straight back into UK Rugby as a 23, 24, 25, 26 year old or whatever. He's got the vacuous bimbo girlfriend and is chasing the money. Nothing brave about that.
He'll go from being viewed as a world class talent and a future Lion to being a little fish in a big pond. But if he's OK with that, he might really enjoy the move. Wales will be sad though.
Rooting for him to make it 💯🙏🏾 he’d make a great RB imo. Fingers crossed he makes it. Can’t wait to see him in the NFL🙏🏾🙏🏾💯 ⚡️
No he wouldn’t, he’s too tall to run between OLs.
Eric Dickerson, Eddie George?
Lover to see his combine numbers
If he only kinda makes it, he'll make way more money than he ever can playing rugby. Good luck to him. In 20 years time, no one will remember the kid. If he stays in rugby, he could be a legend in his own time. I know what i'd choose to do.
Gutted to see him leave Glaws but this isn’t a reflection on Rugby Union if anyone was offered an opportunity to earn 10 times their salary then why wouldn’t they?
It will be a tough path. He will be competing other elite athletes who have been playing the sport for many years. Football at the NFL level is a very steep learning curve.
As a South African.. I remember when Springbok fly half, Naas Botha , was on trial American NFL team Dallas Cowboys in the eighties... said was a big adjustment
Naas didn't make it in NFL. Another South African Gary Anderson did and had a long 23 seasons career as a kicker in the NFL
Honest positive outlook on it well done and very very true if he gets on the pitch it will be massive achievement
Totally agree with you about Louis. He’s taking a punt and good luck to him. He’ll be back for Wales at some point. The Telegraph is part of the problem in rugby, too many old farts with outdated and narrow minded views and resistant to change.
Well, I haven't seen this one coming! I had a 5 year stint with AF, whereas I've been playing rugby for 20+ years now. It's vastly different! Those guys have been playing AF since they were kids and they developed instincts that can't be coaching in a few seasons. It might be a very tough nut to crack for LRZ, even if he's a top athlete. I guess we'll just have to wait and see!
I see a forgotten man from English Rugby, Harry Mallinder is also part of that 16 player International Player Pathway group. Although he has been selected as a Kicker/Punter.
As a Welshman this is devastating. We were already in huge trouble. We’ve lost just about all our British lions. Josh Adam’s about only one left. Anything better than wooden spoon is a great 6 nations campaign
You'll beat Scotland in Cardiff.
You made the same mistake I did up until last season : I was taking everything personally on behalf of Wales. But there is no Wales team anymore. Not really. There used to be pride in the jersey, but now it's all about self. There was a time when people would give their all to wear that jersey, and then give everything on the field to wear it to victory, but then the imports and team jumping journeymen came. Now the national sides, at least in the UK, are just a bigger club side, rather than national teams.There IS no sense of national pride, not within the system. Favouritism, nepotism and player poaching reign supreme.
So much so that I ve even started referring to Ireland as Ireland & Friends, to reflect the current state of the game, and Scotland and England aren't too far off.
Interesting case. LRZ is obviously (along with Kurt-Lee Arendse and Marky Mark of Australia, who’s bolting for league) one of the game’s top young wingers. But the learning curve to be an NFL star is extremely steep. He will have the fitness, of course (few NFL players would cut it in rugby). Actually besides wide receiver, running back or kick returner, Rees-Zammit’s chances might be as good or better as a defensive back, with his size most likely as a free safety. (A cover cornerback spot would be trickier with no experience in the game; a free safety can operate a bit like a football - soccer, that is - sweeper.) His speed and cover tackling skills would translate well. But still, there is that steep learning curve. You’re right, though, that he could always return to rugby, and I like your positive spin on the story. And for all the difficult challenge he faces, my Chicago Bears might be able to use him if they don’t give up on Justin Fields….I could explain that in detail, but don’t want to complicate things for your rugby-exclusive subscriber base…..Anyway, really glad you took on this topic. It is a talker, and I liked your deeper dive….and even I wasn’t aware of the free roster spot for international portal players in the NFL!
Think you are right, I was always thinking offence, but besides a running back, which I’m not so sure about, defence would be a better fit. I was thinking line backer but maybe free safety could work. However hate to be a hater by he has a very high mountain to climb, with absolute killers gunning for his spot. I don’t think he gets off a practice spot, maybe special team punt returner at most, but will be happy to be proved wrong.
Naas Botha played for the Dallas Cowboys in 1983, starting team, as a specialist kicker before returning to South Africa to play for the Springboks again.
Agree with everything you said Tim. On point as always 👌🏼🏴
As a big fan of both sports, it honestly would not surprise me if this is just the start of a trend. All you have to do is take a look at the difference in practice schedules, games and general mileage on the body in both sports and the decision suddenly appears a lot more reasonable. Regardless of whether LRZ makes an NFL roster, he’s pretty much a lock for a spot on a practice squad as part of the international player program. Just doing that he will be in line to earn at least what he would’ve got playing at Gloucester. On top of this, it would not surprise me in the slightest if as part of it he’s signed some kind of documentary deal which would be a nice sweetener on top. By doing all this now, he probably looks after his health in the long term, and even if he changes his mind or it doesn’t work out, he probably walks back into the Wales squad next World Cup cycle. We’ve seen All Blacks go off to play in Japan for a couple of years in between world cups, it wouldn’t surprise me if moving forward we see more world class players choosing to give the NFL a go for a couple of years in between WCs.
NFL is 🐵💩
My thoughts exactly.
Why not to be optimistic? All parties can gain from this.
As ever a great watch. As a Welsh fan I’m absolutely gutted.
With where the Welsh regions are at, with Feyi-Waboso’s decision, with the squad that we’ve announced for the six nations. I’m not feeling positive.
I was listening to this on the way back to my house excited to watch the Eagles Bucs wildcard game, and half way through you randomly just dropped the outcome... Cheers Tim. Guess I'm watching something else now 😂😭
Jugué rugby por 20 años. Intenté el fútbol americano y es muy pero muy distinto. Recibí bloqueos por todos lados a lo cual no estaba acostumbrado.
Very brave young man; HUGE challenge ahead of him. If he makes it, it will be a great achievement. We should all wish him well.
International rugby is a biggest and better achievement.
I think it's an exciting opportunity for the bloke. 22 years old - no better time to give it a go. Worst he'll do is grow his brand a bit and come back to rugby at 25 to bumper contract offers.
Tim's use of statistics outlined the monumental challenge facing LRZ and it would be an achievement to make a practice squad, never mind suit up on game day as part of a 48-man game day roster.
I think his best position would be wide receiver or special teams, possibly a punt/kickoff returner or gunner, where he can use his size, strength, and speed in a way that wouldn't see him hampered by lack of familiarity with the 'route tree' and the intricacies of route running and body position when making sideline catches. It would be a brilliant achievement if he could do it and a fantastic story to follow, regardless of which NFL franchise - if any - you support.
I wouldn’t wish having him be a gunner on him, For those unfamiliar with American football, 🏈 the gunner is a special teams player who rushes downfield on a kickoff to get to the returner first. Speed is important, as well as tackling ability, but it’s a suicide mission!
If your a Welsh fan, it's horrible timing. Haven't had a great time in the 6 nations for last few years and one of your youthful stars drops out less then a month out? No one in Wales could be happy with this and try to say good luck to him.
I'm in Wales and a lifelong rugby player / fan and I say good luck to him. We have the players we have, and the team is bigger than any one of them, plus we've plenty of other selection issues and rugby problems to worry about. If he were my son I'd be backing him in this all the way.
Bro you're a thinker and Iike the way you suggested the film crew idea.
Good luck to the young man. I wish him nothing but the best
Tim, Love your positivity and realism concerning all aspects of rugby. You are spot on, as you generally are. Let him go and try. The worst that can happen is he returns to rugby. Not sure if he's "turning his back", merely as a young man he's trying to find another code to challenge himself. Good luck to him!
The NFL is overflowing with players that have years and years of experience at what is a very very different game. Besides that Rees Zammit has, what will be classed as a perfectly ordinary turn of pace in the NFL. However if they are going to pay him a boatload of cash to chance his arm, then good luck to him.
I usually agree with your thoughts and comments around rugby, we both think the same way however, on this occasion I think you and Louis are wrong. Stay in Rugby Louis, rugby needs young, gifted men like you in this day and age, Wales need you & I'm English and Gloucester needs you. All I'm thinking about are the chances of making it because I think for sportsmen like Louis, whilst money is important because it's your job, the WIN is what it's all about at the end of the day. When and if you come back to rugby in a couple of years the game will have changed, and other talented players will have taken your spot...you won't just get back in a team. You've made your decision though and I wish you all the very best
Really enjoyed this video Tim. Informative and entertaining. Super quick with uploading after the news broke 👍
You touched on the player welfare of rugby vs NFL and could even have expanded on the issue of head trauma. If LRZ can earn good money for a few years in a sport with better head protection, then to me that seems like a really smart move.
Been here before with the likes of Hayden Smith, Alex Gray, Christian Wade etc. Wish him luck but will probably be back in a year looking to make the Wales 6 Nations and B&I Lions Squads!
Even as a welshman i say go for it LRZ. Got a pair of balls to try it. Probably has the right character to do it too. Good luck! (Just make sure you come back lol 😅)
The only South-African in the NFL Dieter Eiselen, played rugby for one of the top rugby schools in SA, Paul Roos, it the has produced more Springboks then any other school. His dream was to be one of them but when it became clear he wasn't going to make it as a professional rugby player he switched to weightlifting, in his final year of high school he moved to the US and played one year of High school football before being offered a full scholarship to Yale. He then declared for the draft but wasn't selected, he was later signed as a free agent with the bears and actually made the team, he now plays for the Texans
He isn't a superstar or even a regular starter but a failed rugby player was able to make it into the NFL, and then you have Wade who never got past a training squad. I think these are two different sports that require completely different athletes
Hi presenter. What is LRZ’s 100m sprint? I thought it was in the 10+ second bracket? I like your thoughts of him suiting the specialist kick returner. He could also be the punter tbh…? It’s exciting for him.
My son has been trying to get into the NFL the last couple of years since graduating college, and has played in the CFL. The challenge LRZ faces is enormous! I wonder if he will try and play TE rather than WR, he would need to bulk up a bit but may be a better fit?
He would need to bulk up a hell of a lot to play tight end, possibly 50lbs, and would still be considered slightly short for the position. The best current player is Travis Kelce, 2 inches taller than LRZ, and 250lbs, 54 pounds heavier than the Welshman.
He's too short to play TE effectively. He would also need to be able to block, which is extremely difficult, not only because of the size of the D-line men in his path, but also knowing how to read what the defence is giving is alot more important. 4-3 zone is vastly different to 3-4, let alone all safety reads over the top..
I feel like FB/WR hybrid would suit him best. I don't think he has the snap to run drag or zip routes, but go routes, post or play action schemes to open the field up for other WR options could work in his favour..
Who knows, butit definitely will be interesting to see..
Tight end? No way. The average NFL tight end is about 193 centimeters (6’4”), so LRZ is close, height wise. But they weigh 115 kg or more or 250 pounds (about 18 stones for you Brits). They have major blocking assignments both on running plays and in pass protection. Rees-Zammit’s frame wouldn’t handle bulking up that much, and if he could it would sacrifice some of the pace that probably makes him somewhat attractive to NFL scouts. And tight ends are part of the offensive line, and while in many schemes they catch many passes and are a key offensive weapon (Kansas City with Kelce, in college ranks Cade Stover at Ohio State), they are more like part of the tight five in rugby. No, tight end isn’t a good idea for him.
@@SplatWun At 6’3” he’s not too short, but everything else you say is spot on.
Different NFL teams have very different expectations of their TE; some are predominantly blocking, and some are big-body receivers, so clearly, my hypothesis is team and scheme-dependent.
TEs are really hard to recruit, which is probably why the good ones have such long careers. Teams always want to convert big WRs or lighter Linemen (or basketball players!) to play there. You mention Kelce, good case in point, he played QB and got converted.
The things LRZ has going for him vs other players potentially converting to TE: He will be much more used to physical confrontation than college WR, so taking on blocking assignments mentally will not be an obstacle. He will have excellent hands (have you ever played catch with an OL!?!). The very different physical demands of rugby, where he is probably covering 8km a game, will have kept his playing weight low, and he will have an opportunity to try and put on (a lot) of muscle.
That being said, it's still highly unlikely, but worth putting into the mix, I thought.
Good luck to him, it will be a huge mountain to climb. Forget RB, body wise he would be WR on offense or returns/bomb squad on special teams.
Comparable odds to an NFL player making the ABs.
He could become a great punt returner or kick returner.
A bit gutted for us, as we needed LRZ. Pob lwc iddo fo, but it will be a very hard road. The level of athleticism of American players is very high, and the competition is fierce. The chances for injury are also very high.
I hope he comes back in one piece.
Hey Matt
They are very athletic, but just watch Baltimore if you want examples of how to tackle.
Corners in the NFL almost never use their arms or nearly always overcommit if presented with a situation where they are needed other than pass coverage.
Even the Safeties these days seem to have lost their edge
Dreamt LRZ, IFW and Regan Grace would be our back three for the next WC 😭
At least he'll have better head protection! I agree, there is no negativity and there is always the possibility of him returning to rugby union.
Don’t fool yourself about the “better head protection” of an NFL helmet. Despite efforts to stop it (newer rules banning “targeting” enforced in colleges and high schools), players still tend to use the helmet as a weapon while making tackles. The risk of concussions (and the long-term aftermath, especially CTE) is exponentially higher in American football as the concussion protocols are significantly weaker and less consistently applied.
@@joeritchie2 Add to that that players target the head in tackles all the time without a flag being called.
@@joeritchie2 Thank you, that's interesting. I'll research some facts and figures about rugby union vs NFL.
Well that is a surprise. Bit left field but hey give him a bit of credit to want to do something different. No what if’s down this path. Also got to give Glos some credit for releasing him so that he can fit in with the NFL season. Show them what you can do young man.😊
is Roman Salanoa the only players who went in reverse? , scouted by irish rugby to switch from college football
Chief Fan here can anyone explain the position he plays and the physicality his role demands?🙏 Thank you in advance🙏
I suspect the NFL maybe trying to extend again beyond the US. I wonder how a prime Jonah Lomu would have faired. At the other end of the spectrum, I remember Naas Botha trying out as a kicker for one of NFL teams
LRZ has already made it on to the official NFL News site.
I read NRL first. NFL is even more shocking.
Help me here. Did LRZ phone up the ‘NFL’ and say ‘gizza job’
Or was he approached by the NFL?
Im Welsh and it sucks he's not in the 2024 six nations but I cannot hate on him, he's young and following his dreams. He has already played for his country and played for the lions. Wish him the best
Best of luck to him, but I fear this is a shortsighted mistake. The US is filled with dudes with his exact skill set who came up playing football, and don’t need international vetting. When he comes back to rugby I hope he still has time to make that next World Cup squad you mentioned Tim.
With this new news I think people outside of the US are seeing why it is so difficult for rugby to break into the US in terms of trying to keep rugby talent playing rugby but also to get crossover athletes playing the sport
He's a special talent, versatile and what a great opportunity. Running back would be interesting for sure! Not sure Wade was ever the same level, is this the first time a top elite player has made the switch?
He's not a 'special talent'. He's a fit, young rugby player trainedand brought up in the sport, nurtured by school, club and country. There are dozens, if not hundreds of rugby players past and present, every bit as good as RZ who chose not to go down this path. Have look at his girlfriend, his instagram and his whole shallow persona. This is about money and fame nothing more.
Tbh the skills in rugby vs nfl are not wholly transferable though his speed will be an asset and his ability to hit space. Id imagine he might manage to get a roster spot in the NFL returning punts and kicks
53 players on a roster is wild. The NFL has too many players. Imagine if they converted some of those into rugby players... frightening.
I don't think code switches are easy in any team sport, especially when you compete with scores of players that have built-up experiences over years. NFL play isn't about stamina, it's about targeted brut force and short periods of highly elevated running skills which take totally different training and mindset.Having to run around the field and play rugby for 120 minutes wouldn't suit NFL temperament players. I guess we'll never know though, given there's not enough money in rugby to attract top NFL players and my opinion is purely based upon what I've heard American football player's say about rugby.
Maybe slot receiver like Julius Eddelman.
The only thing that would increase interest in rugby in the USA would be American teams being extremely successful in the sport -- particularly at international level. One Welsh rugby player -- however talented -- going to America and disappearing without trace in the NFL system is not going to do anything.
Interesting take. 2 things come to mind : Last Chance U regarding how american football is sort of a life preserver to get some education and a remote chance to earn big bucks in the NFL, great series ( Last chance U basketball is just as good ). And the recent rise of Francis Ngannou in boxing, who managed to switch from MMA to boxing and wasn't too shabby vs a very average Tyson Fury, who's a current world champion, and is going to fight Anthony Joshua, a former 2-time world champion.
😯 A huge shock but he's been tempted by $$$. Go for it fella. Short career and all that.
Not sure if you are aware that back in the eighties , Naas Botha the Springbok flyhalf , tried out with the Dallas Cowboys.
And he didn't make it. He returned to rugby. Another South African with the surname Anderson did make it as a kicker and spent 23 seasons in the NFL.
Good luck, but I’d be interested to know who he spoke to and who advised him. He faces an almost insurmountable challenge, especially when you consider how many native Americans fail to make it. However, I think you have a point that any success is success and if he returns to rugby in a few years time that could spark interest for Americans in our sport. Bon chance!
This reminds me of when Jonathan Davies switched codes, in Wales the 💩 really hit the fan. For LRZ this is a huge gamble because there is fierce competition in the NFL. He’ll be up against college guys who’ve played it their whole lives, and that’s before he faces the professionals.
Zammit actually does have decent NFL speed. He runs a 4.3 40 meter dash, which is good in the NFL, and at 6'3, he has measurables that get guys drafted alone, discounting skill.
Will be playing in the prem in 2 years. It’s shocking timing but best of luck to him!
The negatives are mainly for him. It's such a different game. Unfortunately I can't see him making it. Maybe he is just going for that practice squad paycheck be even that isn't guaranteed.
To play as a wide receiver in the NFL you have to be truly brilliant. Wish Louis Reece-Zammit the absolute best. The NFL want American Football to be watched globally and that is why they want Zammit and other sportsman from Europe and the southern hemisphere to “try out” for the NFL. They won’t necessarily make it but they will attract the armchair viewer to watch the NFL.
Excellent video by the way 👍
How the hell can they expect anyone to watch 'globally' when it's so ridiculous. The stopping, the starting, the OTT spectacle of the whole thing. The padding, the helmets .... it's a joke. They've tried to sell it on this side of the Atlantic and it's gone down like a lead balloon. Recruiting one 22 year old Gloucester Rugby player isn't going to 'attract' any armchair viewers in the UK. We'll we watching our own national sports including Rugby - sans helmets, padding and razzmatazz, just all round strength and athleticism. And there will be plenty of new young Welsh players coming through to replace RZ. Just check out Ospreys' youngsters for starters. Hopefully they will have more commitment and loyalty to country and club than he has.
I'd see him more as a running back, he won't be able to catch like a WR or even a TE.
Didn't see that coming, Wales rugby is in complete disarray at the moment its sad. Good luck to Louis, its tough to break into the NFL Christian Wade struggled.
He was a nothing! Played 3 snaps in a preseason game. It's an advertising ploy by the NFL. That's all.
Mailata was different his genetics were freakish and worth putting in the effort to get him up to speed.
LRZ is bang average genetically in comparison.
Dan kriel,jessie kriel brother is playing in the nfl
I have played both sports and what makes you good at one is not necessarily that will make you good at the other. The guy is a freak on the rugby pitch, but will have a bullseye on his chest if he ever sees the field in competitive fashion. Running back? No way if he's smart. They probably have the shortest NFL careers. Receiver? More likely but if I were him, I'd be practicing my punting and place kicking as he's more likely to see the field as one of those. The trick will be to recognize his dream, monetize his dream whilst maintaining his health...
I wish him the absolute best and at 22 why not.
The positive side is that if he ever does have to make a tackle, he'll be the only one in the league to do it properly...would probably make the highlight reel.
I wish him all the best
Speed with those pads will be a problem for him I think.. The best Wide Receiver ever (Jerry Rice) was very slow without pads, but pads did not slow him down. LZR has ALOT to learn.
Sorry to disagree Tim @eggchasers but I think if he has any chance at all of making it it will be at kick/punt returner. WR is too specialised a position for a rookie to step into in my opinion.
Yes, the new skill he’d need to learn to be an NFL wideout would be running the different routes wide receivers learn (posts, slants, crossing patterns, outs, corner routes, digs, and so on. Learning an NFL playbook is a chore for any player, but besides the quarterbacks, wide receivers probably have the most difficult study task.
I suppose it depends how much he loves the game (if he makes it). If he makes it on a practice squad and he's dedicated to learning the craft. It's not impossible for someone to learn and grow in that kind of environment. He'd have to absolutely love it though.
New challenges, more power to him. Though, as a Canadian, there is a number of other countries I would rather go to than the states, although the money in the NFL is just stupid. Didn't even watch the video (sorry E.C.) but tight end is just out of the question. Wide receiver or defensive back. More likely taxi squad foreverrrrr . . .
Saffa living in US: His chances are not remote. His chances are zero.
There was a Saffa named Anderson who spent 23 seasons as a kicker in the NFL
He's too short to play TE effectively. He would also need to be able to block, which is extremely difficult, not only because of the size of the D-line men in his path, but also knowing how to read what the defence is giving, is alot more important. 4-3 zone is vastly different to 3-4, let alone all safety reads over the top..
I feel like a FB/WR hybrid H-back would suit him best. I don't think he has the snap to run drag or zip routes. Go routes, post, or play action schemes to open the field up for other WR options could work in his favour though.
Who knows, but it definitely will be interesting to see..
I wouldve loved to see Bundee Aki have a go at RB for power plays & goal line offense. Caleb Clarke perhaps too, not too sure..
Practice squad is the reserves, IRR is injured players, inactives is fantasy football
I personally think that he's gone a bit mental.
he'll dye his hair blue next
Talking to my brother who is more into American Football than myself, we think he would make a good cornerback. He has shown great defensive work and also has good pace.
Cornerback is the toughest position in the NFL. He's got no chance of playing there.
Safety maybe..?
@@garydonlan7869 Wide Receiver in my opinion is the only option. A very slim possibility but I wish him the best of luck.
It is by far the most difficult position to play outside of quarterback. Cornerbacks have to have incredible lateral speed, quick-twitch and they have to be smart. They have to read the offense, read routes. It's just such a difficult job. Perhaps free safety or strong safety would suit him better on the defensive side of the ball.
Nothing but the best for the young man but I do not see him making it. He would be best suited to wide receiver/corner back with his body shape. But those positions are so specialised it takes years to learn. That leaves running back and they prefer them short and thick or tall and still thick. Not a lanky build like his. But lets see.
Or he could try out for punter, that is probably his best chance.
It's not just going to play NFL, he needs to learn a whole complex playbook, it's more complicated than most people realise.
Money talks, however it will be very difficult for him. Good luck.
I was thinking the other day that LRZ is perhaps the worst possible signing a team could make. Hes the worst combination of big profile but rly not a valuable player. Firstly wingers are the least valuable players in rugby, and LRZ frankly isn’t that good winger.but he has a large profile and so is probably asking for a large play packet. Maybe no one was acc willing to give him the money he thought he could earn
Tell it to the All Blacks that Jonah Lomu, Joe Rokocoko, Jeff Wilson, Mark Talea, Julian Savea, Dougie Howlett etc were the least valuable players on their team. You are speaking from a British Isles perspective where the ball rarely reaches the winger and wingers are there to chase kicks and nothing more.
As a 49ers fan, I loved the Jarryd Hayne story. Bought the Jersey with his name on it. All too short lived but I willed him to get the ball every chance he got. LRZ is a 6N player than will attract some interest back and forth. This is a great story and fingers crossed for him
haynes was ass 😂 liking him was ur own mistake
Fullback could be position for him
Rugby league in Australia would have been a more obvious move or going to Japan. Wish him all the best
I, as I am sure many other are too, am perplexed by this move. For me, this is slightly different to the Christian Wade move as his international hopes were all but dead and buried and so his aspirations to try and be successful in the NFL could be respected, or at least understood. However, with so much potential ahead of Rees-Zammit and consistency at international level a certainty, this decision demonstrates a real air of arrogance and that he is almost superior to the game of Union. I hope I am wrong and that it more the case of a youthful and excited youngster wanting to take every opportunity he can and experience life to the full, but I also hope that it doesn't back fire for him and he is not underestimating the mammoth and significance of the task ahead of him. The US are a conveyor belt of supreme, athletic specimens.
Nonsense the boy is young and is trying something different while he's still has the energy to do so if it doesn't work then at least he tried rather living with the regret of never trying something different I don't see any arrogance in that
I completely understand your point and hope you are right as I would definitely agree with you then!@@gunner4life568
@@gunner4life568 Nonsense indeed. If you think this is about energy or regret then you are an idiot. This is about money first and foremost, secondly the sunshine lifestyle and shallow existence of so many of these so called 'sportsmen' (like Beckham) who think that because they can throw or kick a ball around entitles them to fame and wealth. He's a kid who got nurtured and nursed through his childhood and adolescence, via a state sponsored system and a club (Gloucester) and a nation (Wales). Now he's kicked both in the teeth, not to mention his sport ... to go and pursue big bucks on the other side of the Atlantic playing a fool's game.
The negative is that his peak is probably going to be spent not getting a game in NFL instead of tearing up a rugby pitch.
I'm not Welsh but i just don't get your thinking. Yes, it's a great opportunity for Rees Zammit, but if he does well he won't be coming back to rugby union, if he doesn't know one week be attracted back to rugby to follow him and grow the sport. It's also not as though Wales have that many stars to choose from so i can't see this benefiting the sport in any way.
A couple of thoughts, and full disclosure, I'm Welsh:
You could see something like this coming - LRZ has made no secret that he is ambitious and that rugby probably wasn't going to be enough for him longer term.
He has spent at least one summer training at an American Football coaching facility (college level). His Dad played American Football and brought him up to love the game. So no surprise that, in his own words "It's about continuing his [Dad's] legacy and go beyond, making him proud. It's the sport he grew up loving. I want to do that and make him as proud as I can."
Yes, the odds are stacked against him, but so what. The odds would always be zero if you didn't try at all.
So good luck to him, I hope he succeeds, and even if he doesn't I hope he grows from the experience and doesn't come to regret his decision. Roughly midway between where I live and where LRZ played for Gloucester is the home of the SAS, and we all know what their motto is.
Good luck but realistically no hope.