Bristol Bears Secure Louis Rees-Zammit for the 2025-26 Season

Bristol Bears have made a significant signing by bringing back Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit for the 2025-26 Premiership Rugby season. Rees-Zammit, who spent the last 18 months pursuing a career in American football, is set to return to rugby union, a sport where he has already made a substantial impact.

A Promising Career Interrupted

Rees-Zammit, aged 24, left rugby union in January 2024 to chase his dream in the NFL. He was part of the training squads for the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars but did not make an appearance in a regular-season game. Despite this, his time in the NFL has undoubtedly added to his experience and skill set.

A Return to Familiar Grounds

Before his NFL venture, Rees-Zammit spent six years with Gloucester, Bristol's local rivals. He was released from his contract to join the NFL's International Player Pathway. Now, he is eager to return to the rugby field with Bristol Bears.

Rees-Zammit's Vision for the Future

"Bristol Bears was the obvious choice for me. The style of rugby the team play - all about entertaining the fans and growing the game - perfectly aligns to how I want to play and how I express myself on and off the field," Rees-Zammit stated. He aims to create exciting moments and help people fall in love with the game once again.

Bristol Bears' Ambitious Plans

Director of Rugby Pat Lam has high expectations for Rees-Zammit, describing him as a "world-class player." Lam believes that Rees-Zammit's drive and ambition align perfectly with the club's goals. "At just 24 years old, we know the athlete and competitor he is. The way we play and the way he wants to play fit seamlessly together, and we're looking forward to working with him," Lam added.

Impressive Stats and Future Prospects

Bristol Bears had a strong 2024-25 season, scoring 635 points and averaging 5.3 tries per game. With Rees-Zammit joining the squad, the team is poised to continue their dynamic attacking play. New Wales head coach Steve Tandy has also hinted at a possible return for Rees-Zammit to the national side as early as this autumn's internationals.

A New Chapter Begins

Rees-Zammit will join the Bristol squad on Saturday, with their Premiership season kicking off on September 28 against Leicester. Fans are eagerly anticipating his return and the exciting moments he is sure to bring to the game.