NFL: Travis Clayton praised by former coach at QMC

Travis has been drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Chris Kirby, who was one of his college sports teachers and football coach in QMC, has described the 23-year-old as a "very good all-round sportsperson" and a "natural athlete".

“Travis took to most sports that he tried his hand at and he ended up in rugby and ultimately went on to do very well for himself,” said Chris, as he spoke at a creative media day event organised by Solent University's sports journalism department.

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Students from QMC arranged a live interview with Chris, who spoke about Travis.

Recalling his former student's work ethic, Chris said he was very lively.

“He was very confident in himself and ultimately found his feet in college and then that helped in some ways to put him on the right path to be able to go on and do what he's going to do now,” he said.

“He was a down-to-earth student. He was quiet to start with and developed his confidence as he went along the pathway. He was a solid student.”

Chris said he expects Travis to do "really well" in NFL.

“From what I've seen with players in that programme, I think Travis should do well. He’ll apply himself well and he understands, by the sound of his interviews, that he is in a position to set the opportunity with both hands. Je knows exactly what he's got to do, how he's got to do it, and push on to achieve everything he can from that.”

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The coach also expects Clayton's success to inspire others.

“Just for student engagement here, it has certainly got everybody talking,” Chris said.

“And it's brilliant exposure for rugby, and hopefully for a host of other sports, given Travis’ sporting background.”

You can watch the interview as part of Creative Media Day here: youtu.be/nCkaLFZa0R0?si=lf3cVWrfVwu3wKml.