Rugby League’s Latest Recruit? Leeds Rhinos Reportedly Sign American Football Player
In a surprising turn of events, Leeds Rhinos, the prominent Super League club, have reportedly tabled a contract offer to Cyrus Habibi-Likio, an American Football player who once had try-outs with NFL giants San Francisco 49ers.
Habibi-Likio, who has primarily played state-level American Football, claims that he was approached by an Australian agency, Pacific Sports Management, after showcasing his skills during an NRL exhibition match in Las Vegas earlier this year. According to the player’s own social media statement, the agency was impressed with his performance and subsequently secured him a professional contract with the Leeds Rhinos.
“It all started in March when the NRL came from Australia to play in Las Vegas,” Habibi-Likio revealed. “I decided to try rugby league for the first time ever and did really well in my first game. An Australian agency called PSM approached me and we discussed potential contracts. A few weeks later, they told me there was a professional opportunity with the Leeds Rhinos, a well-known Super League club.”
While the finer details of the reported deal remain unclear, the Rhinos’ decision to bring in an American Football player is certainly an intriguing one. Many have attempted to make the switch to rugby league with varying degrees of success, and Habibi-Likio’s transition will be closely watched by the rugby league community.
The Rhinos have been contacted for comment on this potential signing.
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