Louis Rees-Zammit Shines in Pre-Season Debut for Kansas City Chiefs
Former Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit made his debut for the Kansas City Chiefs during an NFL pre-season game, though the team fell 26-13 to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The 23-year-old Rees-Zammit, who switched from rugby union to American football in January, had previously signed a three-year contract with the defending Super Bowl champions. In Saturday’s game, he played various roles including running back, kicker, and kick-returner, and also contributed to the punt coverage team.
“It was a fantastic first experience,” Rees-Zammit shared with the Irish NFL Show after the game at EverBank Stadium in Florida. “I enjoyed it thoroughly and appreciated the opportunities I had, especially on special teams. I’ll review my performance to see how I can improve.”
He also noted the lively atmosphere, saying, “The stadium was electric with many Chiefs fans, which was a huge boost. It was a great game, and I’m excited for the next one.”
The Chiefs will open their regular NFL season against the Baltimore Ravens on September 5 and will continue their pre-season with a home game against the Detroit Lions next Saturday.
In other news, former Gaelic football goalkeeper Charlie Smyth made a memorable debut for the New Orleans Saints, kicking a decisive field goal to secure a 16-14 pre-season win over the Arizona Cardinals. The 22-year-old Irishman, who also joined the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme earlier this year, nailed a 37-yard kick with just five seconds left on the clock.
Saints head coach Dennis Allen praised Smyth, saying at a press conference, “For his first kick in an American football game to be so clutch was impressive and exciting to see.”
