Jordan Petaia is drawing inspiration from his late father as he prepares to chase his NFL dream next year.

The Queensland Reds and Wallabies star – who has played 31 Tests for Australia – confirmed this week that he was giving up rugby to join the 2025 NFL international pathway program.

The 24-year-old’s career has been plagued by injury and he did not play for the Wallabies this season after his Super Rugby Pacific campaign was cut short.

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He told reporters that he had loved the NFL since he was a boy, watching his late father Seiuli Salatielu Petaia, who died from a heart attack in 2020.

“When the opportunity presented itself, I definitely didn’t want to just put away to the side,” he said.

“You can’t stay young forever. It is definitely something I felt I probably would have regret if I didn’t try it. My old man used to let us stay home from school for the Super Bowl. I used to love those days and spending time together watching the game.”

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Petaia will head to the live in IMG Academy in Florida in January to fast track his education in American football.

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Mailata inked a fresh NFL contract in April worth $100 million.

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“I definitely took inspiration from that, you know. It gave me confidence to have a go and take the opportunity,” Petaia said.

“I’ve followed the NFL since I was a kid. Trying American football is something I’ve always thought about. I’d kick myself if I didn’t have a shot because I don’t want any regrets.

“Now is the right time.”