Paul Lasike Still Charging Ahead: Former NFL and BYU Star Thriving in Professional Rugby
Despite rumors swirling online, former NFL and BYU running back Paul Lasike has not retired from professional rugby. In fact, the hard-charging athlete continues to play a key role for the Utah Warriors in Major League Rugby (MLR), bringing veteran leadership and raw physicality to the pitch.
Lasike’s journey is one of the most unique in American sports. Originally from New Zealand, he came to the U.S. on a rugby scholarship to Brigham Young University, where he later switched to football and racked up over 800 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns for the Cougars. His NFL career included stints with the Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears, where he played fullback and contributed primarily on special teams.
But after hanging up his cleats in 2017, Lasike wasn’t done with professional sports. He returned to his rugby roots, joining the Utah Warriors and eventually earning a spot with Harlequins in England’s Premiership Rugby — one of the top leagues in the world. After nearly three years abroad, he returned to Utah in 2022 and has been a cornerstone of the Warriors’ lineup ever since.
Known for his bruising runs, defensive grit, and locker room presence, Lasike has embraced a mentoring role on the team. While he has openly discussed his desire to coach in the future, no official retirement from professional play has been announced.
For now, Paul Lasike remains an active and impactful player — proving that his unique two-sport legacy is far from over. As the Warriors fight for playoff position, fans can expect to see No. 12 continuing to deliver bone-crushing tackles and powerful carries week after week.
