Raiders Sign Rugby Star Laki Tasi via IPP

The Las Vegas Raiders have signed Laki Tasi, a 21-year-old Samoan-Australian defensive lineman, as an undrafted free agent through the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) program. Tasi, who is 6-foot-6 and 347 pounds, previously played community rugby in Queensland, Australia, and was introduced to American football and the IPP by a local burger shop owner. He joins a growing list of rugby-to-NFL converts, including Super Bowl champion Jordan Mailata. Tasi's arrival led to the release of Nigerian defensive lineman David Agoha, the team's prior IPP participant. Scouts and former NFL executives have praised Tasi for his exceptional size, athleticism, and developmental promise as an interior lineman. His journey underscores the NFL's expanding global reach and the success of the IPP in attracting international talent.