Rees-Zammit 'never thought about rugby return'

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Louis Rees-Zammit says he has "never thought about" returning to play rugby union.

The 24-year-old made a shock switch from rugby to American football in January 2024 but failed to make a regular season appearance in his rookie campaign.

Despite the lack of playing time, Rees-Zammit, who won 32 Wales rugby caps, is as determined as ever to succeed in the NFL.

"I've never thought about going back to rugby," Rees-Zammit told BBC Sport Wales.

"It hasn't been in my head that I'm not going to do this. I've always wanted this.

"The second it [returning to rugby] creeps into your head you start doubting yourself and that's not going to happen with me."

Rees-Zammit re-signed for the Jaguars on Monday, after Jacksonville initially opted not to sign him on a reserve/future contract in January.

The new deal means Rees-Zammit will form part of the Jaguars' off-season roster, which can include as many as 90 players.

The next goal for the former Gloucester and 2021 British and Irish Lions wing is to be selected on an active regular-season roster.

This means Rees-Zammit would have to survive the cut from 90 players down to 53, something he was unable to achieve with Kansas City Chiefs in 2024.

"The first step of the dream is to make an active roster, I'm doing everything I can to make that happen," said Rees-Zammit.

"This is my dream, and the way I make it come true is by working as hard as I can to make the roster.

"Every day is a challenge, every day is hard hard work, but it is one that for this dream to come true is worth doing.

"I'm doing everything I can to become a better player on the field and a better person off the field, so I'm really looking forward to this season."

Louis Rees-Zammit attended the Super Bowl in New Orleans

While Rees-Zammit returns to the franchise, the same cannot be said for a significant portion of the coaching staff.

This off-season the Jaguars have parted ways with their head coach, Doug Pederson, their offensive and defensive co-ordinators, as well as general manager Trent Baalke.

Jacksonville have since named Liam Coen as their new head coach, after his impressive season as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offensive co-ordinator.

Coen and his coaches have brought renewed hope to a franchise that won just four games last season.

"They are another reason I wanted to sign for the Jaguars. It's so exciting this project," added Rees-Zammit.

"It's something I want to be a part of, I want to learn as much as I can.

"The Buccaneers offence was so good last year, and we have some serious weapons in our squad.

"There's so much potential, and these coaches will help unleash everyone."