Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson Signs with Buffalo Bills in NFL Transition

In a surprising move, Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson has decided to leave his successful wrestling career behind and join the NFL. According to his agent, Carter Chow, Steveson has signed a standard rookie three-year deal with the Buffalo Bills, marking his transition from the mat to the football field.

At 6-foot-1 and weighing in at 275 pounds, Steveson is expected to play on the defensive line, a position he has never played before in his athletic career. Remarkably, the first time he ever wore football cleats was during a recent workout with the Bills. Despite his lack of experience, Bills head coach Sean McDermott, who has a background in championship high school wrestling, saw potential in Steveson's wrestling skills translating to football.

While other teams also expressed interest in signing the talented athlete, Steveson ultimately chose the Bills. The team has a great track record of maximizing the potential of defensive tackles with similar statures to Steveson's. Although he may require some development, the Bills consider Steveson a potential ideal practice squad candidate for the 2024 season.

Steveson expressed his excitement for the challenge ahead, acknowledging the steep learning curve that awaits him in the NFL. As a wrestler, he has competed at the highest levels, but now he is eager to test his abilities in a new sport. Grateful for the opportunity, Steveson thanked Coach McDermott, General Manager Brandon Beane, and the entire Buffalo Bills organization.

Steveson's journey from the wrestling mat to the football field was facilitated by his agent Chow, who has connections with prominent MMA managers Dave Martin and Rich Chou at The MAG Agency. With their guidance, Steveson explored the NFL options that emerged, ultimately selecting the Bills. This decision sets Steveson on a journey to become the second athlete ever to win a Super Bowl ring and an Olympic gold medal, following in the footsteps of the legendary Bob Hayes.

Steveson's success in wrestling is undeniable. He achieved a remarkable feat by winning a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. After his Olympic triumph, he returned to the University of Minnesota, where he had an illustrious college career. Steveson won two National championships, three Big-Ten Conference championships, and was a two-time recipient of the Dan Hodge Trophy, known as the Heisman Trophy of college wrestling. These accolades showcase his exceptional talent and dedication to excellence.

As Gable Steveson embarks on this new chapter in his athletic career, the sports world eagerly anticipates how his wrestling skills will translate to the football field. The Buffalo Bills organization believes in his potential, and with dedication and hard work, Steveson aims to make a significant impact in the NFL.