Former University of Missouri football player Clayton Echard is the next star of 'The Bachelor,' reports say

A former Missouri football player may have not found his future wife at Fieldhouse, but now he might on national television. 

According to a report from Variety.com, former Tigers tight end Clayton Echard will be the next star on ABC's reality television series "The Bachelor."

Echard, a Eureka native, played from 2013-15 for Missouri and finished with two career catches for 14 yards. Echard also played some on defense and special teams, finishing his MU career with four tackles.

Echard spent time with the Seattle Seahawks during the 2016 NFL preseason.

More:The next 'Bachelor' is Clayton Echard: 5 things to know about the former Mizzou football player

His Instagram account self-describes him as a "former freestyle rapper and washed-up athlete now trying his luck in orthopaedic sales."

Before his own leading turn, Echard, 28, will be a suitor on ABC's upcoming season of "The Bachelorette." By being named the next male lead of the franchise, Echard likely won't end up with current female lead Michelle Young, but could play a major role in the season. 

"The Bachelor" is a reality dating show that's been on the air for around 20 years.  

Echard will be the franchise's second consecutive male lead who's a former college football player. Matt James played wide receiver at Wake Forest. 

Contact Eric Blum at eblum@columbiatribune.com. Follow @ByEricBlum on Twitter.

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