‘Once in a lifetime opportunity’: Wallabies gut punch as gun confirms NFL move

One of the Wallabies’ most exciting players has announced he is gambling everything to chase his dream in the United States.

Jordan Petaia has quit rugby union to chase his NFL dreams after the star outside back confirmed on social media that he had joined the 2025 international pathway program.

The 24-year-old played 31 matches for the Wallabies and was one of the most exciting players for the Reds from the moment he made his debut as a teenager in 2018.

But he’s now set to challenge himself overseas where he’s hoping to emulate the likes of Jordan Mailata and Valentine Holmes who left rugby league to join the international pathway program next year.

Mailata is one of the greatest examples after leaving the Rabbitohs junior system to become one of the NFL’s best left tackles on a deal worth $100m.

Jordan Petaia is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Jordan Mailata, who has starred for the Eagles since making the switch to the NFL. Picture: Mitchell Leff / Getty Images via AFP

Jordan Petaia is taking his talents to the USA. Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images.

Petaia’s speed and footwork means he’s best suited to being a running back or wide receiver, while he’d also be dangerous at returning kicks.

“I would like to take a moment to share that I will be joining the NFL international pathway program (IPP) for 2025,” he wrote on Instagram.

“The decision to step away from rugby hasn’t been easy and one that took a great deal of consideration. I’d like to thank the staff, coaches and players at the Queensland Reds and the Wallabies for the last 7 years.

“I will be forever grateful for the experiences, skills and good mates that these teams have blessed me with.

“Also to the rugby fans, my family and friends – thank you for your support over the years. It feels like the right time in my career to pursue this dream I’ve had for a long time.

“Thank you to the NFL IPP for giving me this once in a lifetime opportunity, I am very grateful and excited for the experience that lies ahead.

“Wishing everyone in Rugby Australia the best for 2025 – I hope it’s a great year and I will be supporting closely from afar.”

Originally published as ‘Once in a lifetime opportunity’: Wallabies gut punch as gun confirms NFL move