For the 2011–12 Top 14 season, he was offered a full professional contract by Vern Cotter, and was made an official member of the Clermont senior side. He debuted professionally on the 17 September 2011 against Racing Métro in a 22–11 victory. In July 2012, he was loaned to La Rochelle in the Pro D2, to gain some game time and experience. Surprisingly, he played in all but 2 matches in that season, making 23 starts. He remained with the club for the 2013–14 Rugby Pro D2 season, and was a key figure in the team that gained them promotion to the Top 14 for the 2014–15 season. Having put in strong ball carrying performances for La Rochelle, he was called up to the France national side for the 2015 Six Nations Championship by coach Philippe Saint-André. Although he was a late call-up, being added to the squad as injury cover for Louis Picamoles.