Patriots Safety Ebner Granted Leave To Try Out For U.S. Olympic Rugby Team

Nate Ebner was re-signed by the New England Patriots today, and that's not even close to the biggest news currently circulating about the fourth year safety.No, the real big news involving the 27-year-old is that the team also granted him a leave of absence to begin training for this summer's Olympics as he plans to pursue an opportunity to play on the U.S. rugby team.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Ebner was given leave by the team and is scheduled to re-join the club after the rugby competition, which spans from August 6-11.

In a statement, the former sixth round draft pick expressed his thanks to both the Patriot organization and USA Rugby for the opportunity to chase what he called  "a dream I've had since I was a boy in a sport in which I've always had a passion."

He also made clear his intentions for the sport swap:

"I plan to represent the Patriots and our country to the best of my ability. Thanks again and Go Pats and go USA."

The Patriots sent out their support for the Ohio State product via their twitter account.

In four years with the team, Ebner has played in 57 regular season games, primarily playing a role on multiple special teams units during that time. Last season, Ebner attempted both an onside kick and pouch punt kick off attempt, which showed off his rugby abilities.