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Jordan Petaia played two Rugby World Cups for the Wallabies. Los Angeles Chargers, the former Australian Rugby player, signed Petaia for NHL. Petaia blew away the Chargers management with his top notch performance during the trials.
The Chargers signed him as part of the International Player Pathway (IPP) program, which provides opportunities for international athletes from other sports to join one of the NFL’s 32 teams. Petaia underwent 10 weeks of training in Florida as part of the program.
After showcasing his skills during game-day evaluations at the University of South Florida, Petaia will play as a tight end for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers.
Before this new venture, Petaia played 31 Test matches for Australia, including appearances in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups. In December 2023, he announced his departure from the Queensland Reds and the Australian national team to pursue his NFL dream. Petaia is the first Wallabies player to transition to the NFL.
He made his debut for the Wallabies at just 19 years old during the 2019 Rugby World Cup against Uruguay.
However, this signing does not guarantee Petaia a spot in the NFL. According to league rules, teams can sign up to 90 players in the preseason but must reduce their roster to 53 players before the regular season begins in September.
Petaia’s dream is now becoming a reality—a goal he had shared with his father years ago. During his time with the Wallabies, he played as a midfielder and outside back.
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