Bristol Bears sign Louis Rees-Zammit

Louis Rees-Zammit has joined the Bristol Bears with immediate effect after the club secured the signature of the electrifying international star.

The 24-year-old, one of the world’s most exciting talents, made the switch to the NFL 18 months ago, joining the Kansas City Chiefs and then the Jacksonville Jaguars. He makes his return to rugby union with Pat Lam’s Bears at Ashton Gate.

The British & Irish Lion and Wales international, who can operate across the back three, has scored 14 tries in 32 Test appearances for his country and was selected on the 2021 Lions tour of South Africa. He scored 42 tries in 77 appearances for Gloucester Rugby before making his move across the pond in 2024.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: "Louis is a world-class player, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to rugby union and to the Bears this season.

“Although we have a small squad, we’ve been building quality depth and experience across the team, bringing in players who can cover multiple positions to help us take that next step in the PREM and in Europe. Louis offers exactly that to our dynamic back three, with his ability and desire to play both full back and wing for the Bears.

“He has the drive and ambition to be one of the best back-three players in the world, and his goals align perfectly with our ambitions as a club.

“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 when he joins the group tomorrow."

Rees-Zammit said: "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.

“I want to get fans out of their seats, create exciting moments and help people fall in the love with the game. I’m excited to return to rugby at a club that demands those values. I’m looking forward to working with my teammates, Pat Lam and the coaches and all the backroom team to bring success to the Bears