Buffalo Bills’ Rookie Travis Clayton Ready to Blaze a Trail in the NFL!
Travis Clayton, a towering presence at 6ft 7ins, is poised to make waves in the NFL despite never having played a competitive game of American football. The seventh-round NFL Draft pick by the Buffalo Bills is primed to make his mark and “BREAK America,” as he puts it.
Following in the footsteps of fellow rugby union winger Louis Rees-Zammit, Clayton embarked on a remarkable journey from the rugby pitch to the gridiron. Despite his lack of experience in American football, the 23-year-old from Basingstoke, England, caught the eye of NFL scouts with his raw talent and athleticism.
Clayton’s transition to football began when he joined the NFL Academy in 2019, later enrolling in the international player pathway program alongside Rees-Zammit in January. The duo underwent rigorous training in Florida, where Clayton’s impressive physical attributes and dedication stood out among his peers.
The reaction from Travis' friends and family back home in Basingstoke, it means so much 🫶 pic.twitter.com/Jj7tAmWyLj
— NFL UK & Ireland (@NFLUKIRE) April 27, 2024
With a weight of 21st 9lb and a remarkable 40-meter dash time of 4.79 seconds, Clayton’s athleticism is undeniable. His enthusiasm for the physicality of the game and his eagerness to contribute on the offensive line bode well for his future in the NFL.
Draft day was a surreal experience for Clayton, who was overwhelmed by the festivities and the realization of his NFL dream. Despite not having visited Buffalo prior to the draft, Clayton was thrilled to be selected by the Bills, emphasizing his readiness to put in the work and contribute to the team’s success.
The Bills’ decision to draft Clayton was based on his exceptional athletic potential, as observed by offensive line coach Aaron Kromer and general manager Brandon Beane. While acknowledging Clayton’s rawness in football, they were impressed by his tape and confident in his ability to make an impact on the field.
Clayton’s journey from rugby to football is a testament to the NFL’s international player pathway program, which aims to cultivate talent from diverse backgrounds. With his selection by the Bills, Clayton is poised to join the ranks of international players who have found success in the NFL, fulfilling a lifelong dream in the process.
As Clayton prepares to join his new teammates for offseason activities, he remains focused on the journey ahead, recognizing the significance of his first step towards NFL stardom. With determination and gratitude, Clayton is ready to seize the opportunity and make his mark in American football’s biggest stage.
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