Wallabies star commits to chasing NFL dream

Wallabies star Jordan Petaia has reportedly turned down lucrative NRL and European rugby contracts to chase his NFL dream.
AAP reported on Tuesday that Petaia will attend January’s exclusive NFL International Player Pathway development camp in Florida.
The 24-year-old has played 31 Tests for Australia since making his debut as a teenager at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
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Jordan Petaia of Australia attempts to avoid a tackle. Getty
But his career has repeatedly been stalled by injury including a Super Rugby Pacific season-ending shoulder setback in April this year.
Petaia comes off contract with the Queensland Reds in December but will travel to the United States with the club’s blessing.
The Reds hope Petaia will re-sign with them next season should he fail to earn a deal with a NFL franchise.
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Jordan Petaia of the Reds offloads at Suncorp Stadium. Getty
“Jordy’s on a pathway to some other opportunities but we’ve got a good handle on it,” Reds coach Les Kiss said.
“He’s here now so there’s good communication with him and we have our finger on the pulse as that evolves.”
Petaia has played rugby at fullback, on the wing and in the centres.
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He has excellent aerial abilities and is reportedly open to playing multiple positions in the NFL – including in defence – but also as a wide receiver or tight end.
Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jordan Mailata is Australia’s most successful IPP graduate.
Mailata inked a fresh NFL contract in April worth $100 million.
Jordan Mailata of the Philadelphia Eagles after defeating the San Francisco 49ers. Getty
Wales rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit is currently on the practice squad of the Jacksonville Jaguars after being cut by the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
“I don’t really care about haters,” Rees-Zammit said.
“They can say what they want behind their phones, behind their laptops making comments.
Kansas City Chiefs running back Louis Rees-Zammit waves to fans during training camp at Missouri Western State University. Getty
“I don’t listen to that kind of stuff.
I know what I’ve got to do to be successful and they can write all they want.
“I’m working really hard on this dream and I’ve got to try and do as much as I can every day to be a better football player and a better person.”