Australia international Jordan Petaia has ended his efforts to play in the National Football League, signing with French rugby team Perpignan in the Top 14 ahead of the upcoming season.
Petaia, who is 25 years old and holds 31 international caps for Australia, began the year as a participant in the National Football League’s International Player Pathway program. This move followed in the footsteps of Louis Rees-Zammit from Wales, who previously joined the Jacksonville Jaguars before returning to rugby with Bristol Bears.
Unlike Rees-Zammit, Petaia returned to rugby after seven months. During his stint with the Los Angeles Chargers, he signed a three-year contract as a tight end but suffered a minor hamstring injury. He was subsequently waived and placed on the team’s injured reserves list.
Perpignan narrowly avoided relegation last season and has since reinforced its squad for the new campaign. The club announced, “USAP and its president François Rivière are proud to announce the signing of a new recruit for this season,” adding, “The Australian international with 31 selections and participation in two World Cups at just 25 years old.”
Petaia also commented on his situation shortly before his departure from American football became official: “Man injuries suck, but they’re all a part of the game. Blessed to be able to be living this life, chasing dreams we grew up speaking about. Time to get healthy. Excited to see what’s on the cards next…”
Perpignan’s other recruits for the coming season include former Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie and Fiji flanker Peceli Yato. Petaia is regarded as their headline signing as they look ahead to their first match of the Top 14 season against Bayonne on Sept. 6.
This transfer occurs two seasons before Australia is scheduled to host the Rugby World Cup.
