The Utah Warriors have announced the signings of former USA Eagle and Utah football player John Cullen and dual-code star Lote Tuipulotu for the upcoming Major League Rugby season.

Cullen played rugby and football at the University of Utah and later with the Seattle Saracens. He was capped in 15s and then joined the Utah National Guard as a paratrooper, playing for the All-Army sevens team.

“We’re very fortunate to have John in the squad,” Warriors head coach Alf Daniels said. “His strength, size, and athleticism allow him to cover multiple positions in our forward pack. He’s in great shape and will be able to make an impact from day one. His leadership and background in the military will definitely be critical for us both during game time and on the practice field. I’m excited to see him thrive in our program.”

Cullen can play lock and loose forward.

Meanwhile, Tuipulotu has been a standout for the Tonga Rugby League team in the Rugby League World Cup and the USA Islanders team that played Saracens in August.

Tuipulotu was part of a Tongan rugby league team that almost defeated England in the semifinals this past week and logged a shocking victory over New Zealand during a 4-1 run in the tournament. 

“Being selected as a Warrior means a lot to me," Tuipulotu said in a statement on Twitter. "This opportunity shows me that hard work pays off."

The signing is also a nod to the increasing cross-pollination between rugby league and rugby union. While the codes have their significant differences, for a prop/hooker like Tuipulotu, playing league can help a player's open-field defense and overall mobility and fitness.

And speaking of cross-pollination, rugby/football star Paul Lasike is also on the Warriors team. Lasike played both rugby and football at BYU and played 10 games for the Chicago Bears, as a fullback, last fall.