Former rugby star and surging fan-favorite Louis Rees-Zammit is enjoying his first training camp with the Chiefs, though admitted some aspects are more challenging than others.
Rees-Zammit, who famously has never played organized football, was impressive throughout the summer as both a ball carrier and pass-catcher. He knows his calling card will be on special teams, at least initially, though his versatility can be both a gift and a curse.
Speaking to the media following Thursday's practice, Rees-Zammit revealed that learning the extensive playbook has been the most difficult part of his transition.
Louis Rees-Zammit Admits Learning Andy Reid's Playbook is Toughest Part of Camp
Chiefs RB Louis Rees-Zammit says the toughest part of training camp has been learning the playbook.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) July 18, 2024
LRZ says after meetings wrap up around 8 p.m. he spends two additional hours pouring into the playbook before bed.
He realizes special teams will be key to him making team. pic.twitter.com/DLFept23Vm
Reid's playbook is notoriously difficult, just like his training camps. To ensure he gets the mental part of the game down, Rees-Zammit said he spends two extra hours before bed each night working on the playbook.
Players like Travis Kelce have spoken about the advantage of knowing every player's role on any given play, though that bonus knowledge is a requirement for Rees-Zammit. He could theoretically line up at several different positions at any time, so he'll have to know every possible responsibility.
All reports have been positive on his play throughout the summer, though we'll get a better idea once he throws the pads on and competes against this ferocious Chiefs defense. I believe he'll ultimately make the roster due to his versatility and athleticism but it's admittedly not a sure thing.
The NFL's new kickoff rules give Rees-Zammit an inherent advantage on special teams, given his familiarity with rugby-style rules. He's already one of the fastest players on the team, so the sky's the limit if he properly learns the playbook.
Expect a healthy dose of Rees-Zammit updates throughout camp. The organization clearly wants to prioritize his development, and Brett Veach may just have found another diamond in the rough.
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