Clayton Fejedelem


Clayton Daniel Fejedelem is an American football safety for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League. He played college football at Saint Xavier University and the University of Illinois, and was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

Early years

A native of Illinois, Clayton Fejedelem attended Lemont High School in Lemont, Illinois where he starred in football, wrestling, and lacrosse. Fejedelem was a two-time All-Conference selection in football for the Lemont Indians, and earned All-State honors in football as a senior.

College career

Fejedelem played two seasons at NAIA Saint Xavier University from 2011-2012. He redshirted his junior season at Illinois in 2013 after joining the program as a walk-on, carrying on to become a captain during his senior season from 2014-2015. At the end of the 2015 season, he led the Big Ten in tackles at 140.

Professional career

Cincinnati Bengals

Fejedelem was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round, 245th overall, in the 2016 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he appeared in all 16 games and recorded three total tackles. In the 2017 season, he appeared in all 16 games and started five. He recorded one interception, two passes defensed, and 42 total tackles. In the 2018 season opener against the Indianapolis Colts, he recorded a game-clinching 83-yard fumble return for a touchdown on a drive where the Colts were threatening to score and go ahead late.

Miami Dolphins

On March 20, 2020, Fejedelem signed a three-year contract with the Miami Dolphins.