Petaia: NFL stint makes me a better Wallaby

Wallabies utility back Jordan Petaia believes his eight-month stint in American football has made him a better athlete. The 26-year-old has returned to the Australia squad ahead of Sunday's match against the Springboks in Perth. Petaia previously joined the NFL's International Player Pathway Program and signed a three-year deal with the Los Angeles Chargers, but did not play in a game before being waived in August due to a minor hamstring injury.

Following his NFL stint, Petaia played for Perpignan in France before joining the Urayasu D-Rocks in Japan. He stated that the experience helped him understand his body better and improve his daily preparation routine. Petaia bulked up to 110kg during his time in the United States but has since returned to his rugby playing weight.