Former rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit has been seen in new training footage, sparking excitement among Kansas City Chiefs fans online.
The former Wales rugby player has been returning kicks in simulated kick-offs and even kicking the ball himself.
"I honestly have such high expectations for this kid," said one.
"The playbook is the only thing stopping this kid. As much as Americans don't like to admit it, football evolved from rugby. At its core, the basics are the same and when it comes to returning kick-offs in high-level games he's probably the most experienced player out there," said another.
"I think he's making the 53 for all people made fun of the early excitement over him.," said one.
Another said: "You have to think rugby players are like a multi tool. Tackle, run, catch, kick. This dude could be used for a lot of different things."
Growing popularity:
Louis Rees-Zammit has made it into the top 10 for the most-sold NFL jerseys in the UK. According to data from June 2024, the 23-year-old has the sixth-highest jersey sales among all NFL players.
Rees-Zammit broke up with YouTuber to date famous swimsuit model and DJ
Rees-Zammit's personal life has also been a hot topic, featuring relationships with high-profile personalities, from a Premier League legend's daughter to a famous YouTuber and a notable model/DJ.
Alicia Scholes
In December 2019, before his international debut for Wales, Rees-Zammit posted a photo of himself playing for Gloucester. Alicia Scholes, daughter of football legend Paul Scholes, humorously suggested an England debut was imminent, despite Rees-Zammit’s Welsh roots. He firmly replied, "Wales*".
In a BBC interview, Rees-Zammit spoke about his past relationship with Alicia, a professional netball player for London Pulse. He revealed the light-hearted attempts by her father to sway him towards England, which he steadfastly resisted.
Alicia and her father Paul found themselves in the spotlight in 2021 due to a viral video that led to playful banter among rival supporters.
Saffron Barker
Following his NFL trial day, Rees-Zammit ended his relationship with influencer Saffron Barker. The couple had gone public after the Rugby World Cup, but their relationship faced challenges with his move to the US.
Saffron addressed the breakup on social media, expressing gratitude for the support from her fans and hinting at a positive future.
She wrote to her fans: "Hi everyone. I have so much exciting news to update you on, and I promise to keep you all posted on that."
"For now though I wanted to address some of the questions re my relationship. Whilst I won't be going into any detail, I am no longer in a relationship. I am fully focused on my well-being, wonderful family, & career," she further commented. Saffron continued in the recent post:
"I want to thank all of the incredible people who have sent me messages of love & strength over the past few weeks. I have read every single one & I can't tell you how much it has meant to me."
Saffron - who has more than two million subscribers on her YouTube channel - concluded by writing: "I know good things come to good people so I hold onto the hope that 2024 is going to be a positive year for me. Lots of love."
Xandra Pohl
Recently single, Rees-Zammit has been spotted with Sports Illustrated model and TikTok sensation Xandra Pohl. The pair were seen enjoying a day out at Worlds of Fun amusement park in Kansas City, sparking rumors of a new romance.
Xandra, a successful DJ who has played at high-profile venues including Ushuaia Ibiza, is set to perform at Lollapalooza in Chicago this summer.
Alongside his new relationship, Rees-Zammit has also been embracing the Kansas City lifestyle, attending Travis Kelce's 'Kelce Jam' festival and sporting a new ear piercing.
As Louis Rees-Zammit continues to make waves both on and off the field, his journey in the NFL is one to watch closely.
