8 Chiefs Whose Stock is Rising After OTAs
3. Louis Rees-Zammit, KR/RB
Chiefs fans didn't know what to expect from Louis Rees-Zammit when the Chiefs signed him back in March. After all, the 23-year-old had made a name for himself as a rugby player and didn't play football growing up, seemingly putting him at a disadvantage against his peers.
Fast forward to OTAs where Rees-Zammit has received nothing but praise as he transitions into a new career. The Welsh talent's blistering speed and rugby background had him looking like he'd make for a decent running back, however, the Kansas City coaches are leaning towards him becoming the team's top kick returner.
Special teams coordinator Dave Toub has shouted Rees-Zammit's praises to the heavens, telling reporters on May 30 that the latter is a "great athlete" who's "done above and beyond what's expected."
As it stands right now, Dave Toub, following today's practice, says Louis Rees-Zammit, the former rugby star, is on pace to be a potential starter at kickoff return for the Chiefs.
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) May 30, 2024
"He’s done above & beyond what I’ve expected. He wants to be great & he’s a great athlete."
With kickers potentially taking on a bigger tackling role due to the NFL's new kickoff rules, the Chiefs have even considered using the former rugby stud as a kicker. Toub told reporters last week that the coaches have floated around the idea of using Rees-Zammit for kickoffs while allowing Harrison Butker to kick field goals.
Being able to excel in multiple roles is never a bad thing for an NFL player. Just look at how Taysom Hill has made himself irreplaceable to the New Orleans Saints due to his ability to throw, catch, and run the ball. That isn't to say that Rees-Zammit will be as impactful as Hill, but it's clear that he's someone who the Chiefs could benefit from having on the roster.