Christian Scotland-Williamson has rejoined professional rugby and signed for Harlequins after three years on the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad, the London club announced on Friday.
The 28-year-old began his rugby career at Worcester Warriors but left in 2018 to pursue a move to the United States with the National Football League’s International Player Pathway, eventually signing for practice squad contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“It is an extremely exciting time for me to be stepping back into rugby,” Scotland-Williamson said in a statement. “To come back and play for the Premiership Champions is a fantastic opportunity. I have had some time to think about my next step and have watched the team go from strength to strength.
“The club has a group of talented players and you can see the culture is starting to produce some eye-catching results.
“I have learned some valuable lessons from my time in America and am coming back to rugby with a different perspective. Performing on the highest stage is a privilege and one I don’t take for granted. Harlequins play an attractive brand of rugby and play the game the right way. I am looking forward to working with the Coaches to take another step forward in my career.”
Williamson became the second professional rugby player to join the NFL after Alex Gray tried to make it as a tight end for the Atlanta Falcons. Gray later returned to rugby union with Bath in November.
Former London Wasps back Christian Wade is in entering his third-year as a running back on the Buffalo Bills practice squad, but has yet to make a first team appearance.