Breaking Barriers: English Offensive Lineman Makes History in 2024 NFL Draft

In a historic move, the NFL welcomed its second player from overseas into the league through the 2024 NFL Draft. Tyler Clayton, an offensive guard from England, was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the 233rd overall pick in the seventh round.

This rare occurrence was made possible through the International Player Pathway program, established by the NFL in 2017. The program aims to provide athletes from outside the United States a clear path to the NFL by allowing them to develop their skills in American football through international camps.

Travis Clayton, a 6-foot-7, 301-pound former soccer player and boxer from England, was also selected in the seventh round by the Bills with the 221st overall pick. Clayton, who is part of the NFL’s International Pathway Program, brings a unique set of skills and athleticism to the team.

The NFL’s International Player Pathway program not only expands the league’s reach beyond the United States but also provides opportunities for athletes who may not have otherwise been drafted into the NFL. With the addition of special teams players in 2024, the program continues to grow and attract talent from around the world.

Clayton, who has never played football before, will now have the opportunity to compete for a roster spot with the Bills. His impressive physical attributes, including a seven-foot wingspan and a 4.79 40-yard dash time, make him a promising prospect for the team.

As the NFL continues to globalize the sport of American football, players like Tyler Clayton and Travis Clayton pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive league. Their journey from overseas to the NFL serves as an inspiration for athletes around the world who dream of playing at the highest level of the sport.