Fort Dodge’s Dayson Clayton ‘Motivated’ For Upcoming Senior Season
Class of 2021 running back Dayson Clayton experienced a bit of a rough patch during his junior season. However, the Fort Dodge Senior High athlete is ready to make the most of his final year on the prep football field.…
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Continue ReadingClass of 2021 running back Dayson Clayton experienced a bit of a rough patch during his junior season.
However, the Fort Dodge Senior High athlete is ready to make the most of his final year on the prep football field.
“It was very frustrating not being able to compete in the sport I love and being sidelined for most of the season really hurt,” Clayton said. “It was one of the worst moments in my life but it also motivated me to work harder than ever to come back my senior year strong.”
Clayton, who has received interest from a handful of colleges already, ran for 579 yards and scored four touchdowns a season ago while battling injuries. As a sophomore, he racked up 1,087 yards and scored 12 touchdowns.
A true dual-threat out of the backfield, Clayton had 15 catches for 124 yards and a score last season after recording 37 receptions for 390 yards with five TDs the year before.
Heading into his senior year, Clayton has 2,425 yards rushing with 23 touchdowns, while also adding 63 receptions for 716 yards with nine TDs.
“What separates me apart from others is that I’m a very versatile athlete,” Clayton said. “If you need a player to go out and block, I’m that guy; if you need a player to go out and run routes, I’m that guy; If it’s third-and-short I will get that first down.
“If you look at all my film you will see how much of an athlete I truly am.”
To get his body as prepared as possible, Clayton said he is lifting four times a week and running to improve both his speed and agility. He recently talked with the University of Northern Iowa for a junior visit day and has also had discussions with Northwest Missouri State assistant coach Joel Osborn, a former Iowa prep standout himself.
“I’m really excited about this upcoming season,” Clayton said. “This is my last chance to show everyone what I got.”
The Dodgers went 6-4 last year, advancing to the Class 4A state playoffs. They will be under the direction of FDSH grad and former Iowa State University player Nik Moser this season, as he replaces Matt Miller as head coach.
Fort Dodge opens the season on August 28 against Ames.