Chiefs Cut Fan Favorite After Late Preseason Injury

The Chiefs released former international rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit on Tuesday, cutting his bid to make the initial 53-man short despite an impressive summer in his first experience playing football.

Rees-Zammit saw a lot of work on special teams and his dynamic athleticism gives him a chance to stick on the practice squad. Listed as a running back though learning some receiver as well, Rees-Zammit still needs time to develop before he can make a large impact at the NFL level.

Once undrafted rookie Carson Steele became a roster lock, the numbers at running back didn't work to keep Rees-Zammit on the team, even if the coaching staff liked what they saw.

Chiefs News: KC Releases Rugby Star Louis Rees-Zammit

Rees-Zammit missed practice this week dealing with a back injury. Perhaps the Chiefs will try to keep him with some sort of injury designation, though it doesn't appear likely he'd be poached on the waiver wire at this point.

If the organization can put him on the practice squad, Rees-Zammit will be a tough prospect to turn down. His technique needs a lot of work, yet his speed, size and ability to learn quickly are encouraging signs for his long-term development.

Provided Rees-Zammit is serious about turning into a valuable NFL player, he'll get another opportunity whether with the Chiefs or another organization. Athletes of his caliber are hard to find, so at least one more team will likely see if they can crack his high ceiling.

For now, a beloved new member of Chiefs Kingdom is on the outskirts and waits for another chance.

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