The International Player Pathway (IPP) aims to get athletes NFL-ready, but not everyone makes the grade. Some become stars in other ways

This week, the Chargers announced the signing of Jordan Petaia via the NFL’s International Player Pathway, securing an Australian rugby player at a key position of need on the depth chart going into 2025.

The Commanders have gone outside the usual football development system for the latest addition to their roster.

The Los Angeles Chargers have signed former Australian rugby star Jordan Petaia as part of the NFL's International Player Pathway program.

The Falcons still have Pro Bowl kicker Younghoe Koo under contract and he'll likely remain the starter in 2025. However, Koo struggled in 2024 as he attempted to play through a leg injury. While most assume the veteran kicker will return to form next season, Krieg gives the team some competition for Koo.

The drama and/or looming competition may come as a shock to Falcons fans, given that the team appears to be content with focusing solely on the defensive side of the football team. Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot has recognized that the Falcons require depth at all positions, except for the running back room.

The Washington Commanders are adding international flavor to their roster. On Thursday, the franchise signed defensive end T.J. Maguranyanga, a former professional rugby player who was born in Zimbabwe.