Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has recently proposed that NFL teams should consider investing in rugby to help the sport gain traction in the American market. He believes that the values and dynamics of rugby would resonate well with American sports fans.
Speaking to the press, Kolisi expressed his conviction that more exposure on television would significantly kindle America's interest in rugby. “I really think Americans would love rugby if they get to see more of it, and if it is shown a whole lot more on TV,” he stated.
“But I think it needs a lot of hard work. I really believe if the NFL teams buy into rugby and they become part owners in the rugby clubs, and some of the players that don’t get to play, if they can use them, let them play rugby, I think that would really help the game a lot.”
The idea of NFL involvement isn’t just about financial investment but also about utilizing players who are less active in their league. With the Rugby World Cup scheduled to be hosted by the USA in 2031, there’s a pressing need to build a competitive team. Currently ranked 14th globally, the USA's rugby team struggles to make a significant impact, especially compared to the soaring popularity of their soccer counterparts.
Kolisi suggests that the NFL could promote rugby during its off-season, providing sports fans with year-round high-contact action. "You can’t compete [with American Football]. I think rugby can play off-season when the American football is off, and they can play it," explained Kolisi, highlighting the potential seamless transition from one contact sport to another during different seasons.
“I think Americans would really enjoy the game, the values, and what it stands for as well.”
Transitioning from NFL to rugby, however, presents its own challenges. Kolisi shared insights from his visit with Paschal Ekeji, a defensive end for the New York Jets, emphasizing the differences in gameplay and physical demands. “The hardest thing about it is learning the plays, because you have so many plays, and they can be called at any time,” Kolisi reflected.
While American football is characterized by short, explosive plays, rugby requires sustained physical engagement, presenting a steep learning curve for players accustomed to American football’s format. Furthermore, the vast number of players on American football rosters could potentially benefit rugby teams by providing a pool of athletes skilled in high-contact sports.
The suggestion of cross-pollination between NFL and rugby not only aims to elevate the standards and interest in U.S. rugby but also proposes a fascinating cultural exchange of sporting talents and ethos. As the discussions continue, the integration of NFL resources and players into rugby could very well be a game-changer for the sport in America.
Indeed, as the sporting landscape evolves, these kinds of collaborative efforts could pave the way for a new era where rugby and American football not only coexist but also complement each other, enriching the U.S. sporting culture and its international sporting standing.
