England’s Travis Clayton made history on Saturday as he became the latest international player to join the NFL, being selected by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round of the 2024 Draft. The former rugby player, who also has a background in boxing, was chosen with the 221st overall pick after spending time in the league’s International Player Pathway program.
Standing at an impressive 6’7″ and 301lbs, Clayton showcased his athleticism by recording a remarkable 4.81-second time in the 40-yard dash during his Pro Day. This speed would have been the fastest among offensive linemen at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, highlighting his potential in the league.
Despite not having played in a real football game yet, Clayton’s talent and dedication caught the attention of several NFL teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons. Ultimately, it was the Buffalo Bills who showed the most interest in the promising athlete.
“I don’t think it’s really going to kick in yet until I actually get to Buffalo. But at the moment, it’s a world of emotions going on right now. It’s crazy,” Clayton expressed after being drafted by the Bills.
With the NFL now allowing teams to have an extra spot on their practice squad for international players, Clayton has a chance to continue developing his skills and potentially make an impact on the field. Inspired by the success of players like Jordan Mailata, Clayton is determined to make the most of this opportunity and fulfill his dream of playing in the NFL.
The Bills’ offensive line coach Aaron Kromer praised Clayton’s athleticism and potential, highlighting his raw talent and impressive measurables. With hard work and dedication, Clayton has the opportunity to make a name for himself in the NFL and become a valuable asset for the Buffalo Bills.