Former NFL standout and three-time Pro Bowler, Shawne Merriman, is optimistic about the prospects of Louis Rees-Zammit's transition into the National Football League (NFL). Rees-Zammit, a former Wales Rugby Union star, recently made waves by signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, opting to embark on a new chapter in his athletic journey through the International Player Pathway Programme. 

Merriman, known for his keen insights into the world of football, expressed enthusiasm about the untapped potential present in athletes like Rees-Zammit. "There’s a lot of unseen, unfounded talent out there," Merriman remarked, emphasising the significance of programs like the Player Pathway Programme in providing opportunities for aspiring players from diverse backgrounds.

"The Player Pathway Programme [aims] to bridge the gap and give these guys the opportunity to be seen," Merriman noted in an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com's Richard Graves. He envisions a surge in international players eager to test their mettle in the NFL, whether they're established superstars like Rees-Zammit or undiscovered talents poised to leave their mark on professional sports. This initiative not only diversifies the league with varied skill sets but also fosters inclusivity and innovation in the realm of American football.

Image credit: Kansas City Chiefs

Acknowledging the challenges inherent in transitioning from rugby to American football, Merriman highlighted Rees-Zammit's natural athleticism and raw talent. "All the natural assets you need to be an NFL player are there, we just need to start see him catching the ball" Merriman affirmed, citing Rees-Zammit's speed and athleticism as key attributes that could facilitate his success on the gridiron.

Merriman also weighed in on recent changes to NFL rules, particularly the modifications to kick-off rules, which he believes create opportunities for players like Rees-Zammit to shine. "I really like the new rules as it now actually gives the skill players an opportunity to return the ball. When the ball is normally kicked out of bounds, you don’t even get the chance to see a kick-off. So, with that part of the game almost eliminated, it creates real opportunities for those kick-off returners to score some points," Merriman explained. 

With the reduction in touchbacks resulting from out-of-bounds kicks, the role of kick and punt returners becomes increasingly pivotal, presenting Rees-Zammit with a potential avenue to make an impact on the field.

"He’s got the speed, he’s got the athleticism," Merriman affirmed, underscoring Rees-Zammit's suitability for a role as a kick and punt returner. "He doesn’t have to be [Patrick] Mahomes’ primary target to make an impact on the team," Merriman added, emphasising the versatility and potential contributions Rees-Zammit could offer to the Kansas City Chiefs.