For many people across the UK and Ireland, the recent NFL combine has been far more appealing than other years. The addition of three Gaelic Footballers, a former Connacht out-half and a Lions Tour rugby player has certainly added more eyes to the sport of American Football from across the water.
While it seems that every day, the likes of Charlie Smyth, Rory Beggan, Mark Jackson and Darragh Leader impress even more with their place kicking ability, it's Louis Reece-Zammit who looks to be the first to seal a contract with an NFL franchise.
There's no doubt that NFL scouts and coaches will have had their eyes somewhat opened in recent weeks with the discovery of talent coming from Europe.
Louis Reece-Zammit closing in on bumper-deal with the Chiefs
According to Bleacher Report, the former Wales winger is set to sign with reigning Super Bowl Champions, Kansas City Chiefs and after making the brave decision to opt out of Wales Six Nations squad at the last minute, it looks like that decision has paid off.
Rees-Zammit became the starboy of the Welsh national team after making his debut at the age of 20, before going on to score 14 tries.
READ HERE: GAA Stars Expected To Sign NFL Contracts Over Coming Weeks
After impressing coaches during last week's trials, Louis Rees-Zammit reportedly met with a number of sides over a possible contract, but has decided to join the Chiefs.
He's set to sign a contract in the region of €800,000.
Louis Rees-Zammit = FAST. 💨
A 4.50 40 from the Welshman 👀
🎥: @DropkickMangan pic.twitter.com/m719NGyC3k
— Pro Football Ireland (@NFLIreland) March 20, 2024
One man who understands the feeling of being picked up by an NFL giant is Christian Wade, who made the switch from rugby to American football in 2019. The former England winger left Wasps and joined Buffalo Bills.
Wade returned to rugby three years later and has been playing with Racing 92, but will join Gloucester as Louis Rees-Zammit's replacement next season.
The Welshman will operate as a running back or wide receiver for the Chiefs and it looks like he will be a teammates with some household names like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce this year.
Rees-Zammit will benefit from new rules introduced to the NFL which allows all 32 NFL franchises to have an additional place in their practice squads specifically for those who have come through the International Player Pathway.
He's also signed with American agency Roc Nation Sport who look after a number of high profile NFL stars, as well as the likes of Siya Kolisi and Marcus Smith.
We're hoping this won't be the last of the overseas deals with NFL sides in the coming weeks, with the Irish contigent who have worked under Tadhg Leader attracting interest from other sides.
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