Report: Chiefs signing rugby star Rees-Zammit

The Kansas City Chiefs agreed to terms with European rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit, a source told ESPN's Adam Teicher.

Rees-Zammit is reportedly expected to have an initial role as a running back and potentially wide receiver. He worked out and impressed the Chiefs' coaching staff earlier this week, according to Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz, who was the first to report the agreement between Kansas City and its new dynamic playmaker.

The Wales native also visited the Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, and New York Jets.

Rees-Zammit could become a key contributor to the Chiefs' special teams unit as a kick returner under the NFL's new kickoff format.

The 23-year-old announced his intention to quit rugby in a surprising move in January. Speed won't be an issue for him in the NFL, as he ran a 4.43-second 40-yard dash last week during the league's international player pathway pro day. He also posted a 29-inch vertical.

NFL teams expanded their practice squads in 2024 to include a 17th roster spot for one international player.

Owners of one of football's most creative offenses, the Chiefs had a down 2023 regular season largely due to their struggles at wide receiver. Kansas City had the most dropped passes by wideouts in the league last year. However, Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Co. stepped up in the playoffs and led K.C. to its second consecutive Super Bowl title.

Here's what the Chiefs will be getting from their new offensive weapon: