Sydney Roosters' De La Salla Va'a aims for NFL opportunity

De La Salla Va'a, a front-rower for the Sydney Roosters, is planning to pursue an opportunity in the NFL during the NRL off-season. At 21, Va'a made his NRL debut in 2024, playing in just three games. He is interested in the NFL's International Pathways Program and has received invitations to tryouts. Va'a expressed his desire to discuss a potential 10-week release from the Roosters to participate in the program, emphasizing his goal to showcase his abilities to NFL teams. His aspirations follow a trend of athletes from rugby leagues transitioning to American football, with past examples including Jordan Mailata and Jarryd Hayne.

• 1:36 AMZero Tackle NRL — Sydney Roosters’ front-rower wants to pursue NFL opportunity