Buffalo bills man who has never played a competitive game of American football, gather 775,000 fans..

Travis Clayton, a towering figure at 6 feet 7 inches, is embarking on a groundbreaking journey as he transitions from rugby to American football, despite never having competed in the sport before. Selected as the 221st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills, Clayton’s unconventional path to the NFL showcases his determination and versatility.

Before his foray into American football, Clayton explored various sports, including rugby, athletics, football, boxing, rowing, and tennis. Despite his diverse athletic background, Clayton’s transition to the NFL was facilitated by his enrollment in the NFL Academy’s international player pathway program in 2019. Alongside Welsh rugby speedster Louis Rees-Zammit, Clayton underwent rigorous training in Florida, impressing scouts with his athleticism and potential.

Weighing in at 21 stone 9 pounds, Clayton possesses the physical attributes and speed necessary for success as an offensive lineman. His remarkable speed, evidenced by a 40-meter dash time of 4.79 seconds, caught the attention of Bills scouts, marking him as one of the fastest offensive linemen in the team’s recent history.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the physicality of American football, Clayton eagerly anticipates the opportunity to channel his strength and aggression into the sport legally. His selection by the Buffalo Bills amidst the excitement of downtown Detroit, where a record-breaking crowd gathered for the draft event, signifies a pivotal moment in his athletic career.

Despite not having visited Buffalo prior to the draft, Clayton is ready to embrace the challenges ahead, fueled by the team’s confidence in his potential. Bills offensive line coach Aaron Kromer and general manager Brandon Beane were impressed by Clayton’s athleticism and character, recognizing his raw talent and the unique perspective he brings from his rugby background.

Clayton’s journey from the rugby fields to the NFL exemplifies the success of the international player pathway program, which aims to diversify the league by introducing athletes from various sporting backgrounds. Inspired by the achievements of past graduates like Efe Obada and Jordan Mailata, Clayton is determined to make his mark in the NFL, fulfilling a lifelong dream with humility and gratitude.