Former BYU and Utah Warriors star Paul Lasike has signed with Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership, the club confirmed this weekend.

Lasike, who earned his first USA cap in February, played rugby and football at BYU before trying his hand at the NFL, where he played briefly for the Chicago Bears. This past season he signed with the Warriors and said his football days are behind him.

A wide load at center, Lasike earned his first cap with the USA in an Americas Rugby Championship game with Chile. He scored a try in that game and another in his next test match, a week after against Brazil. He also scored a try against Russia and has three tries in six tests. He has signed with Harlequins for two years.

But his biggest contribution to the USA may be on the defensive side, where he has repeatedly smacked imposing runners to the ground.

Paul Gustard, Harlequins’ head of rugby said: “I am delighted Paul is joining us for the start of a new era at Harlequins. He is a player who has enormous game-changing potential and I am very excited and pleased that Paul and his young family have made the decision to come to be part of our journey."

“He adds something different to a talented group of centres that we have at the club. I am sure the fans will enjoy his approach to the game and give him and his family the warm welcome that they are famous for."

"Words can’t explain how excited I am to be here," added Lasike. “I am thankful for the cooperation of the MLR and Utah Warriors for allowing Paul the opportunity to develop his game, challenge himself and give Paul and his family new experiences to enjoy.”