The one upside of Louis Rees-Zammit exiting rugby in favour of the states-based NFL is that fans can finally have the opportunity to find out just how fast the Welshman really is - as he competes in the NFL International Player Pathway Pro Day.
NFL Pro Days work similarly to the NFL Combine. They include a variety of tests and challenges for these prospective stars to compete in, from the 40-yard dash to the vertical jump, and even the bench press. Today the 23-year-old has been competing in all of these events at the University of South Florida in front of scouts from all 32 NFL teams.
Ahead of today's tests, Rees-Zammit had recently told CNN’s Coy Wire: “I fancy a new challenge and what a better challenge than to be in the NFL".
The challenge proved to be just so, as the 6 foot 3 inch former winger started with a visibly frustrating 9 foot 7 inch broad jump, before continuing with a mediocre 29 inch standing jump.
Despite a disappointing start, the former Gloucester Rugby player had his bread and butter to come - sprinting.
“I’ve been training really hard for seven or eight weeks now and I think I’m in a good position" he had said. "I feel smooth, I feel comfortable and I’m ready to show everyone what I can do.”
Well, he won't be too disappointed with his second attempt at the 40 yard dash, crossing the finish line in just 4.44 seconds.
This time is noticeably faster than former NFL transfer, Christian Wade who clocked a time of 4.53 when he followed the pathway back in 2018.
Since its inception in 2017, a total of 37 players have inked deals with NFL teams through the International Player Pathway. Notable successes from the program include Philadelphia Eagles left tackle Jordan Mailata and Washington Commanders defensive end Efe Obada. Former Northampton Saints player Harry Mallinder is also on the international pathway as a prospective kicker.
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