Known for his electrifying pace and versatility, Queensland Reds utility back Petaia, 24, has been a mainstay in the Wallabies backline since his debut in 2019. Now it's been strongly rumoured he could follow in the footsteps of Wales' Louis Rees-Zammit by making the leap to American football via the NFL International Player Pathway.
Petaia's career so far
Melbourne-born Petaia’s meteoric rise began in 2018 when he became one of the youngest players to represent Queensland Reds in Super Rugby. His powerful running, sharp footwork, and ability to break the defensive line made him an instant sensation. By the age of 19, he had been fast-tracked into Australia's 2019 Rugby World Cup squad, where he made history as the youngest-ever Australian player to feature in a World Cup knockout match.
For that match against England, Petaia also became the youngest player to start at outside centre in a World Cup, and the man who selected him, then head coach Michael Cheika, said of the youngster: ”I trust him infinitely. It’s going to be fast and aggressive but I know he will rise up to that challenge, I’ve seen it in him.”
Although injury setbacks have occasionally interrupted his progress, Petaia has consistently bounced back to form and remains one of the most exciting prospects in world rugby. His performances in an otherwise underwhelming 2023 Rugby World Cup for Australia, and in Super Rugby, have further cemented his reputation - one that a Wallabies side in a rebuilding process under new head coach Joe Schmidt could do with going into the Autumn Nations Series this November, then a British and Irish Lions series next year.
Next month, Australia will travel to Europe to face England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland on consecutive weekends as part of their Autumn Nations Series campaign.
NFL aspirations
Petaia is reportedly considering following the likes of Rees-Zammit and Christian Wade by transitioning from rugby to the NFL. This comes as no surprise, given his combination of speed, agility, and raw athleticism - attributes highly sought after in American football.
In January 2024, there were already murmurs about his interest in exploring options beyond rugby, including both the NRL and NFL. With the growing trend of rugby players crossing over to American football, Petaia’s ambitions appear more realistic than ever.
What Petaia could bring to the NFL
Petaia's strengths translate well to the demands of the NFL. His acceleration and spatial awareness on the rugby field would make him a valuable asset as a wide receiver, a position where players need to outpace defenders and make quick, tactical decisions. His experience in the high-impact, fast-paced environment of rugby could also help him adapt to the physicality and strategic nature of American football.
However, the transition won't be without its challenges. Petaia would need to learn the intricacies of a new sport, including different playing styles, terminology, and tactics. Previous rugby-to-NFL converts have experienced mixed success at best, but Petaia’s physical tools and determination give him a good chance to succeed if he pursues this bold career shift.
For rugby union fans, however, will hope the game isn't about to lose another bright talent to the cut-throat world of NFL, especially having witnessed the travails of Rees-Zammit and Wade.
Understanding the NFL International Player Pathway
The NFL International Player Pathway (IPP) is a programme aimed at increasing the number of international players in the NFL. Established in 2017, the IPP provides an opportunity for athletes from outside the United States to train and compete at the highest level of American football. Players who join the IPP are allocated to NFL teams, where they can earn a spot on the practice squad with an additional roster exemption for the team, allowing them to develop their skills further. The programme has produced notable NFL players like Jordan Mailata, who transitioned from Australian rugby league to become a key player for the Philadelphia Eagles.
