Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt is set to lose star utility back Jordan Petaia with the Reds standout reportedly looking to pursue a career in American Football.
Following in the footsteps of fellow international Rugby Union players Louis Rees-Zammit and Christian Wade, Petaia will join the International Player Pathway program.
If successful, Petaia will then link up with an NFL franchise in a bid to make either their practice squad or 53-man roster.
Playing the bulk of his career in the back three and outside centre positions, it is believed that Petaia will attempt to become wither a tightend or wind receiver.
Now 24-years-old, Petaia who has played 31 tests for the Wallabies is at a cross roads with several clubs in both the NRL and Super Rugby also reportedly chasing his signature.
Discussing the interest in his star player, Reds head coach Les Kiss was asked about Petaia’s status and whether he has given an indication of his plans going forward.
“Jordy’s on a pathway to some other opportunities but we’ve got a good handle on it,” Kiss said before confirming the player remains on track with his recovery from injury, “He’s here now (training at Ballymore), so there’s good communication with him and we have our finger on the pulse at that evolves.”
On the contract front, Petaia’s current deal with the Reds is set to expire in November and there is little doubt the team will be looking to extend his deal with the prospect of a British and Irish Lions tour next year and a Rugby World Cup in 2027.
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