Louis Rees-Zammit reportedly signs for Super Bowl champions ...

Former Wales rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit has signed for Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs, according to a report in the United States.

Rees-Zammit is set to join the Chiefs’ practice squad, having impressed during his time on the NFL’s international player pathway (IPP).

The 23-year-old’s signing is expected to be confirmed on Friday, with running back and wide receiver his designated positions.

The move comes after he visited several NFL franchises, including the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos.

Rees-Zammit’s next goal is to win a place on the Chiefs’ final roster for the new season, joining their star players Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce in targeting a third-successive Super Bowl.

The Gloucester, Wales and Lions wing stunned the world of rugby in January by quitting the sport in an attempt to secure a contract with an NFL team in 2024.

That dream moved a step closer when he impressed during last week’s pro day that forms part of the international player pathway.

Rees-Zammit clocked 4.43 seconds in his 40-yard dash, a 9ft 7in broad jump and 29-inch vertical jump.

Four Irish athletes are aiming to secure NFL contracts as kickers and punters as part of the IPP programme.

Down goalkeeper Charlie Smyth will train with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday, according to Pro Football Ireland and The Athletic.

Smyth, 22, took part in the NFL scouting combine alongside Monaghan’s Rory Beggan and Wicklow’s Mark Jackson earlier this month. The trio then kicked at a pro day in front of scouts last week at the University of South Florida. Former Connacht rugby player Darragh Leader is also taking part in the programme, but has been limited by a hip injury in recent weeks.