21 Nov 2016

Taumalolo to trial for NFL spot

4:47 pm on 21 November 2016

New Zealand rugby league star Jason Taumalolo has reportedly travelled to the United States to participate in secret trials for the NFL.

News Corporation is reporting Taumalolo flew from London immediately after playing for the Kiwis in their loss to Australia in the Four Nations final, to be tested by American Football scouts.

Jason Taumalolo in action for the Kiwis

Jason Taumalolo in action for the Kiwis Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The North Queensland Cowboys star - who was named joint-Dally M medallist with Cooper Cronk this year - put rumours about a possible code switch to bed less than two months ago, declaring he wanted to become an National Rugby League great.

"I want to be playing in the NRL for as long as I can and hopefully be recognised alongside (Cronk), (Johnathan Thurston) and (Cameron Smith) as one of the greats," Taumalolo said after being named the Dally M winner in September.

Kangaroos winger Valentine Holmes, who also played in the Four Nations final, is reported to have flown to the US for the NFL trials as well.

Taumalolo and Cronulla's Holmes were believed to be deep in negotiations to remain with their NRL clubs beyond the end of the 2017 season.

- AAP