The world of rugby is witnessing an unprecedented trend as some of its brightest talents are trading the oval ball for the gridiron. Most recently, Wallabies star Jordan Petaia announced his departure from rugby to join the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP) programme. Petaia’s decision follows similar moves by notable players like Welsh winger Louis Rees-Zammit, raising eyebrows across the sporting landscape and sparking curiosity about rugby’s growing connection with the NFL.

Jordan Petaia’s Bold Move

At just 24 years old, Petaia, a mainstay of the Australian national team with 31 international caps, is embarking on a career-altering journey. His inclusion in the IPP programme represents a significant shift in focus for a player who has long been a standout in rugby.

While announcing his decision, Petaia acknowledged the challenges of leaving rugby behind:

“It hasn’t been easy and took a great deal of consideration. It feels like the right time with my age and stage in life to pursue this dream I’ve had for a long time.”

Petaia will begin his training at the NFL Academy on the Gold Coast in Brisbane before heading to Florida for an intensive 10-week camp. His goal? To follow in the footsteps of Rees-Zammit, who stunned the rugby world earlier this year by signing with the Kansas City Chiefs and later moving to the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad.

Aaron Sexton Joins the NFL Movement

Joining Petaia on the IPP programme is Aaron Sexton, an Ulster winger and former Ireland sevens player. Sexton, also 24, brings an impressive athletic background to the table, having been a sprinter before his rugby career. With one try in ten appearances for Ulster, Sexton’s explosive pace and agility make him a prime candidate for success in the NFL.

Sexton’s move highlights the NFL’s strategic push to recruit talent from rugby, leveraging the unique skills rugby players can bring to American football.

The NFL’s Growing Interest in Rugby Talent

The NFL has ramped up its efforts to scout rugby players, targeting athletes who possess specific traits, including:

• Age: Between 20 and 24.
• Physical Attributes: Outlier size (6ft 3in+) and exceptional athleticism.
• Specialized Skills: Kicking ability or other transferable skills.

A leaked email earlier this year revealed the league’s proactive approach, inviting representatives to nominate eligible rugby players for the IPP programme. The NFL has even expressed willingness to navigate players’ “current contractual obligations” to facilitate their transitions.

Notable names like Joe Cokanasiga, the 6ft 4in England wing, have also explored the opportunity, visiting the NFL’s offices in London to discuss a potential move. While Cokanasiga ultimately chose to stay in rugby, other players—including members of South Africa’s URC teams and France’s sevens squad—are reportedly considering the switch.

The Antoine Dupont Rumors

Speculation surrounding French rugby star Antoine Dupont also emerged this year after the scrum-half trained with the Los Angeles Chargers. However, Dupont, who recently won sevens gold with France at the Olympics, played down the rumors:

“No, I think it’s quite far from rugby. I would really have to dedicate a lot of time to it. And to be honest, I don’t even have a position in mind where I could see myself.”

While Dupont may not be making the leap, his involvement underscores the growing fascination between rugby players and American football.

A New Frontier for Rugby Players

The departures of players like Petaia and Sexton to the NFL signal a new era for rugby athletes seeking to explore opportunities beyond the sport. With the NFL actively courting talent from rugby, more players may consider trading the rucks and mauls for touchdowns and tackles.

For now, all eyes will be on Petaia and Sexton as they begin their NFL journeys. Will their rugby skills translate to success on the gridiron? If Rees-Zammit’s experience is any indication, the potential for greatness is certainly there.

As the lines between rugby and American football continue to blur, one thing is clear: the NFL is becoming an enticing destination for rugby’s elite.