Rugby Players Who Made It to the NFL

If you love both rugby and American football, you’ve probably wondered whether a rugby player can really jump to the NFL. The answer is yes, and there are a few athletes who have done it. In this article we’ll break down why the switch works, who’s already made the leap, and what it means for future prospects.

Why Rugby Skills Fit the NFL

Rugby teaches you to run hard, tackle safely, and think fast. Those are exactly the traits NFL coaches look for in a running back, tight end, or special‑teams player. In rugby you’re used to playing the whole match without a break, so stamina is built into the sport. That endurance makes it easier to handle the fast‑paced NFL drills and long practice weeks.

Another key point is handling the ball under pressure. Rugby players constantly catch, pass, and kick while being hit. That translates to better ball security on the gridiron. Plus, rugby’s emphasis on open‑field running helps players find gaps in a defensive line – a skill that shines in the NFL’s rush game.

Finally, rugby’s tackling technique is taught to protect the opponent’s neck and spine. That means rugby athletes already know how to bring down a runner safely, a big plus for teams that want to avoid penalties.

Notable Rugby‑to‑NFL Success Stories

Hayden Smith is a classic example. He grew up playing rugby in New York, earned a scholarship at Stanford, and then signed with the New York Giants as an offensive tackle. His size, footwork, and ball‑handling made the transition smooth, and he spent several seasons on the roster.

Jarryd Hayne took a different path. A star in Australia’s rugby league, he switched to the San Francisco 49ers in 2015. He played as a wide receiver and return specialist, showing how speed and agility from rugby can shine in the NFL’s open‑field positions. Though his NFL stint was brief, his impact sparked interest in more cross‑code moves.Another name worth mentioning is Nate Ebner. He started as a rugby sevens player for the U.S. national team, then became a special‑teams star with the New England Patriots. His tackling ability and rugby instincts helped him become a fan favorite and a Super Bowl champion.

These players prove that the move isn’t just a gimmick – it works when the right skills line up with the right NFL role.

If you’re a rugby athlete dreaming of the NFL, the key steps are finding a coach who understands both games, training for the specific position you want, and showcasing your speed and strength at pro‑days or combines. Many teams now scout rugby tournaments for raw talent, so performing well on the rugby field can open the door to a football contract.

For fans, watching rugby players tackle in the NFL adds a fresh storyline to the season. It also highlights how sports share core principles – power, speed, and teamwork – no matter the field. Keep an eye on upcoming rugby stars; the next NFL rookie could be a rugby player you’ve never heard of yet.

Bottom line: the transition from rugby to the NFL is rare but real. The skills overlap, the athletes are adaptable, and a few success stories have already shown a clear path. Whether you’re a player, a coach, or just a curious fan, the crossover world is worth watching.