Cape Town - NFL star Nate Ebner is attempting to fulfil his dream of playing for the USA sevens team at this year's Rio Olympics.
According to the ESPN website, The 27-year-old defensive back has taken a leave of absence from the New England Patriots to train with the USA team.
At 17, Ebner became the youngest player to play for the USA sevens team.
He also played at the 2007 and 2008 IRB Junior World Championships.
Ebner, who has just signed a new contract with the Patriots, will rejoin the NFL side after the Olympic rugby tournament finishes on August 11.
The USA are currently fifth in the HSBC World Sevens Series standings after six of the 10 tournaments this season.
The USA are expected to be medal contenders in Rio, with their speedy backs Carlin Isles and Perry Baker likely to lead their medal hopes.