Buffalo Bills Take a Chance on Rugby Player Travis Clayton in 2024 NFL Draft
In a draft filled with familiar names and faces, one selection stood out as a true outlier. Offensive tackle Travis Clayton, a former rugby player from England, made history by being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the 2024 NFL Draft without ever having played a down of American football.
Standing at an imposing 6-foot-7 and weighing in at 301 pounds, Clayton possesses the physical attributes that NFL teams covet in an offensive lineman. His impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.82 seconds would have been the best among offensive linemen at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, showcasing his rare athleticism for a player of his size.
Despite his lack of experience in American football, Clayton’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his determination and willingness to take on new challenges. After excelling in rugby and soccer in his youth, Clayton made the bold decision to transition to American football by joining the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program.
The IPP Program, established in 2017, provides elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level and earn a spot on an NFL roster. Clayton’s selection by the Bills is a testament to the program’s success in identifying and developing talent from around the world.
While the decision to draft Clayton may seem unconventional, Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane saw potential in the raw talent and athleticism that Clayton possesses. With the NFL’s amended IPP Program rules allowing teams to carry an international player on their practice squad, the Bills have the flexibility to develop Clayton’s skills and see how he adapts to the demands of the game.
As Clayton embarks on his journey to prove himself in the NFL, he follows in the footsteps of former rugby players like Christian Wade and Jordan Mailata, who have successfully made the transition to American football. While the path ahead may be challenging, Clayton’s selection by the Bills represents a bold and exciting gamble that could pay off in a big way for both him and the team.