Rugby league star Valentine Holmes has today requested an immediate release from his club, the Cronulla Sharks, to pursue a career in the NFL.
Holmes, a Queensland and Australian representative footballer, will look to follow in the footsteps of fellow NRL star Jarryd Hayne, who too swapped codes in order to make it in American football.
In a media release posted by the Sharks, Holmes states- "I personally believe it's the right time for me to challenge myself and pursue this NFL opportunity."
The 23 year old is most likely to pursue an NFL contract through their International Pathways Program, which has already had two Aussies,ย Emmanuel Meafou andย Jordan Mailata, go through this process.
However, if Holmes is unsuccessful in gaining an NFL contract, the fullback can only return to the NRL playing for the Sharks in 2019 before becoming a free agent in 2020.
Sharks CEO Barry Russell says he wishes Holmes all the best for his American endeavours.
"We are incredibly saddened to see him leave our club and exit the game of rugby league, however, we wish him all the best in pursuing his NFL career and hope one day he may again wear the Sharks colours," Russell said.
