NRL Updates: Burton's NFL Buzz, Hetherington's Storm Move, and Flight Incidents
Recent developments in the National Rugby League (NRL) have seen Bulldogs player Matt Burton attract significant interest from the NFL due to his extraordinary kicking abilities, while Jack Hetherington has secured a new contract with the Melbourne Storm. Separately, former halfback Chad Townsend experienced a medical incident during a flight, and a flight transporting ARL officials also faced travel disruptions.
Matt Burton's Kicking Prowess Catches NFL Eye
Bulldogs player Matt Burton has garnered substantial attention from the NFL, following viral footage showcasing his remarkable kicking skills. He successfully kicked a ball into the 110-foot (33.5-meter) high roof of the Las Vegas Raiders' facility, an uncommon feat even for seasoned professional gridiron punters. Raiders player Caleb Rogers noted that the team's punter, AJ Cole, does not frequently achieve this.
Raiders player Caleb Rogers: "Our punter, AJ Cole, doesn't frequently achieve this feat, and Burton would likely receive an opportunity if he pursued American football."
Further highlighting his potential, Burton reportedly completed a 62-meter conversion kick using a gridiron ball, which has been cited as an unofficial NFL record. NFL scouts have reportedly expressed interest in the NRL star, whose current contract with the Bulldogs concludes at the end of the 2027 season. His manager, David Riolo, confirmed the scout interest and stated that Burton would consider an NFL opportunity if it arose. Raiders player Thomas Booker IV commented on the potential for Australian athletes in NFL kicking and punting roles. As early as 2022, Australian punter Matt McRobert described Burton as having an "NFL leg" and the potential to impact the game at college or NFL levels.
Jack Hetherington Joins Melbourne Storm
Jack Hetherington has officially signed a one-year contract with the Melbourne Storm. During his final season with the Newcastle Knights, Hetherington sought support from rugby league veteran Phil Gould regarding personal and professional challenges he faced. Gould met with him to offer advice and insights.
Gould described Hetherington as inherently athletic, noting that his physical abilities could sometimes precede his decision-making. He also used the term "prudent" regarding the Storm's decision to recruit the forward. Hetherington's move aims to secure a position in the Storm's competitive forward pack, following openings created by Eli Katoa's season-ending injury and Nelson Asofa-Solomona's recent release from the club.
Chad Townsend Experiences Mid-Flight Medical Scare
Former NRL halfback Chad Townsend received urgent medical assistance after fainting on a flight from Los Angeles to Sydney. Townsend reported experiencing intense "hot and cold shivers" and excessive sweating prior to losing consciousness. He was promptly administered oxygen by the cabin crew.
Fortunately, medical professionals were among the passengers, with a doctor and nurse Brooke Gidley stepping forward to provide immediate assistance. Townsend was later cleared for travel and subsequently arrived in Las Vegas for a scheduled football event. It was confirmed that the incident was not linked to alcohol consumption.
ARL Officials Encounter Flight Delays
In a separate travel incident, a flight transporting ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys and other NRL officials experienced air conditioning issues. The flight was forced to return to Sydney airport shortly after departure. After an extended delay, the flight successfully departed hours later, proceeding with its journey.