Last updated on .From the section English Rugby

Joel Yogerst (left) and Quinten White will link up with Bristol in November

Bristol are to take two ex-college American Football players on trial, as they bid to gain professional UK deals.

Joel Yogerst is a University of Wisconsin-River Falls Falcons fullback while Quinten White is a Temple University linebacker.

They will link up with Andy Robinson's squad in November.

"There's an enormous pool of talented athletes in the States and rugby union is rapidly developing in the country," director of rugby Robinson said.

"I'd like to welcome Joel and Quinten to Bristol Rugby and we look forward to seeing what they can achieve here."

NRL and Rugby Union code-switchers Hayden Smith: Played for Saracens between 2008 and 2012 before an 18-month spell in the NFL with New York Jets. Rejoined Sarries last year. Dan Lyle: Was offered an NFL contract by Minnesota Vikings in 1996 but opted to play rugby union for Bath. Went on to play for Leicester Tigers and was capped 45 times for the USA. Terry Price: Capped by Wales and British and Irish Lions in the 1960s, before a brief spell at the Buffalo Bills. Gavin Hastings: A former Scotland international and the captain of the 1993 British and Irish Lions, he went on to win a World Bowl for NFL Europe team the Scottish Claymores

The pair were spotted during an open trial day for the National Rugby Football League (NRFL) Combine, which is due to launch in the USA next summer.

They have signed a two-week trial with Championship leaders Bristol, with a view to them training and developing their rugby union knowledge.

"Joel and Quinten both provide unique skillsets that will translate favourably as they transition into their professional rugby careers," said Shawn Zobel, a player recruitment specialist for the NRFL Combine.

"I'm sure they'll show really well at Bristol, their attitude and work ethic is of the highest calibre."