From Rugby to NFL: Travis Clayton’s Journey as the Latest Convert

The transition from rugby to football has presented challenges for some athletes in the past. Jarryd Hayne and Christian Wade both left their respective sports near the peak of their powers, but failed to make it long term in American football’s NFL gridiron. However, there have been success stories such as Jordan Mailata who now plays as an outstanding offensive tackle for Philadelphia Eagles after switching from rugby league. The latest player attempting this transition is Travis Clayton, a former rugby athlete selected by the Buffalo Bills during Saturday’s draft with their first pick in the seventh round (221st overall). At 6 feet and 7 inches tall weighing 303 pounds, he possesses raw skills that could make him an excellent player on the NFL’s offensive line. Clayton played for England-based Basingstoke Rugby club which competes in Hampshire’s lowest rugby tier – County 2 – however despite a limited experience with football games, his measurables are exceptional according to Brandon Beane, Buffalo Bills General Manager. Although he lacks significant NFL playing time and expertise, Clayton is optimistic about how rugby has prepared him for this new opportunity, pointing out the game’s team element, which translates well into effective communication in football as well. However, Lance Zierlein, an NFL draft analyst cautions that his future will depend on both his toughness and a coach’s ability to provide sufficient training opportunities given Clayton’s lack of experience playing American Football. Nevertheless, he is considered an above-average athlete with a wingspan extending for over 7 feet coupled by a decent sense of shuffle and slide movements that are cleanly executed during changeovers.