The transition from rugby to football has historically been challenging for athletes, with many failing to make a successful long-term switch. However, there have been some success stories, such as Jordan Mailata, who became one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL after switching from rugby league. Louis Rees-Zammit, a former Welsh international rugby player, will attempt to make it work with the Kansas City Chiefs this season after transitioning to football earlier this year. Despite the challenges, some athletes have been able to excel in the new sport.
On Saturday, the Buffalo Bills drafted Travis Clayton, a former rugby player from the United Kingdom, with the hope that he can have a similar impact as Mailata. Clayton, who has never played a snap of football, is part of the International Player Pathway program, allowing athletes from around the world to try to reach the NFL. Standing at 6-feet-7-inches and weighing 303 pounds, with impressive physical abilities, Clayton has the raw tools that could translate to playing offensive tackle in the league, despite his lack of football experience.
Clayton, who played for Basingstoke Rugby club in the eighth tier of English rugby, believes that his experience in rugby will help his transition to football. He attributes his team knowledge and communication skills from rugby as beneficial for his future in the NFL. Although his future in the league will be dependent on his toughness and the team’s ability to provide him with necessary reps to improve his craft, Clayton’s strengths include being an above-average athlete with a seven-foot wingspan and fluid movements on the field.
The Basingstoke Rugby club congratulated Clayton on Twitter after he was drafted by the Bills, expressing their pride in his achievement. While Clayton’s lack of football experience is a potential obstacle, his potential for growth and development is evident. Despite the challenges ahead, Clayton remains optimistic about his transition to football, with the support of his rugby background and the belief that his physicality and agility from rugby will benefit him in his new sport. As Clayton embarks on this new chapter in his athletic career, he is determined to make the most of this opportunity with the Buffalo Bills.
