Seydou Traore Becomes First NFL Academy Graduate Drafted into NFL

Seydou Traore became the first graduate of the London‑based NFL Academy to be selected in an NFL draft, marking a milestone for the program’s mission to develop British talent for American football. Traore, a 21‑year‑old defensive end from London, joined the Academy in 2021 after a brief stint playing rugby and track at the University of Oxford. Over three seasons he honed his blocking and pass‑rushing skills, earning a spot on the Academy’s elite squad and gaining exposure to NFL scouts through the Academy’s partnership with the NFL and its “NFL Global Academy” outreach.

Traore’s draft journey began when he attended a combine hosted by the NFL in London, where he posted a 4.55‑second 40‑meter dash and a 4‑foot vertical jump—metrics that matched or surpassed many U.S. prospects. He was subsequently invited to a training camp in the United States, where he impressed coaches with his work ethic and adaptability to the American style of play. On the day of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected him in the seventh round, making him the first player to transition directly from the Academy’s program to an NFL roster.

The selection underscores the growing influence of the NFL Academy in expanding the sport’s global reach. Traore’s achievement provides a tangible example for aspiring British players, illustrating that with dedicated training and international exposure, the pathway to the NFL is attainable. His entry into the league also signals to NFL teams the value of scouting talent beyond traditional U.S. pipelines.