The Pittsburgh Steelers were among the NFL teams last year who participated in the international player program, being awarded Australian rugby player Christian Scotland-Williamson, who played the tight end position with the Steelers last summer.
International players have special advantages that allow them to participate with minimal risk, for both themselves and their teams. They do not count on the 90-man offseason roster, for one thing, so it doesn’t take a roster spot away from a player who is more familiar with the game.
Additionally, team can choose to carry an 11th player on their practice squad during the season provided that it is an international player, who is afforded an exemption.