Travis Clayton: From Rugby to NFL – The Journey of the 221st Overall Pick

Travis Clayton, a former rugby player, is set to make his mark in the NFL after being selected as the 221st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. Despite never having played a competitive game of American football, Clayton has impressed scouts with his athleticism and potential.

Standing at 6ft 7in and weighing 21st 9lb, Clayton is a formidable presence on the field. His impressive speed, demonstrated by running the 40-meter dash in 4.79 seconds, caught the attention of Bills scouts and earned him a spot on the team.

Clayton’s journey to the NFL has been a diverse one, having tried his hand at various sports including athletics, football, boxing, rowing, and tennis. His passion for the physicality of the game and the opportunity to legally unleash his strength on the offensive line excites him for the challenges ahead.

The international player pathway program, which Clayton participated in alongside Welsh speedster Louis Rees-Zammit, aims to introduce international athletes from different backgrounds to the NFL. With the success of previous graduates like Efe Obada and Jordan Mailata, Clayton is eager to prove himself and make his mark in the league.

As Clayton prepares to join his new teammates for training activities and eventually training camp in August, he is grateful for the opportunity to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL. With hard work and dedication, Clayton is determined to make the most of this opportunity and carve out a successful career in American football.