Travis Clayton, former eighth-tier rugby star, chosen by Buffalo Bills in NFL draft

Former rugby player Travis Clayton has been selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2024 NFL draft. In the Englishman’s selection he joins former Wales star Louis Rees-Zammit in American football.

Clayton, 23, was selected with the 221st overall pick in the seventh round despite never having played a competitive game in the sport.

The 6ft tall athlete, who played eighth level rugby for hometown club Basingstoke in the Counties 2 Hampshire Division, was selected from the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program as an offensive lineman.

In a post on social media, Clayton thanked fans in Britain for the support he has had throughout his journey.

He said: “I just want to shout out to all the British fans for sticking with me and supporting me, and look, I’ve made it to the NFL and now it’s time to represent the rest of the world and show why exactly British athletes should have to play. in the NFL.”

Clayton recorded his 40-yard dash in 4.79 seconds at the draft combine, which the Bills said was faster than any offensive lineman in the past 10 years.

It comes after Rees-Zammit signed for Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs in March. Rees-Zammit, who announced his decision to leave rugby union in January, impressed for the Chiefs during his time on the NFL’s international player pathway, with running back and wide receiver his designated positions.