Tyler Matakevich Bio
Tyler John Matakevich (born December 22, 1992) is an American professional football linebacker. He played college football for the Temple Owls. He was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL draft. He has also been a member of the Buffalo Bills.
Early Life and Background
Tyler Matakevich was born in Stratford, Connecticut. He attended St. Joseph High School in Trumbull, Connecticut, where he played linebacker and running back on the football team and also participated in baseball. During his high school career, he amassed impressive statistics, including 2,357 rushing yards, 1,355 receiving yards, and 3,898 all-purpose yards. On defense, he recorded 371 tackles, 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and eight interceptions, scoring a total of 59 touchdowns. After suffering a foot injury during a pre-season scrimmage in his senior year, he attended Milford Academy for a year before committing to Temple University to pursue college football. At Temple University, Matakevich had a standout college career, playing from 2012 to 2015. He became the first freshman in school history to record 100 tackles in a season, finishing his first year with 101 tackles. Over the following years, he continued to excel, culminating in a senior season where he led the team to the American Athletic Conference Championship and earned several prestigious awards, including the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award.
Path to American Football
Matakevich’s college career at Temple was marked by significant achievements. As a sophomore, he recorded 137 tackles, one sack, and one interception. His junior year saw him achieve 117 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and another interception. In his senior year, he became the seventh player in FBS history to record 100 tackles in all four years. His performance earned him national recognition, including being named the AAC Defensive Player of the Year and a consensus All-American. He finished his college career with a total of 493 tackles, breaking the school’s record for career tackles during the Boca Raton Bowl.
Tyler Matakevich Career
Early Career (2016-2019)
Tyler Matakevich was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft, being the 246th overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the team on May 5, 2016. Throughout the training camp, he competed for a roster spot and impressed coaches with his performance. Matakevich made his professional debut in the Steelers’ season-opening victory over the Washington Redskins, where he recorded his first career tackle against the Cincinnati Bengals. He finished his rookie season with 20 combined tackles in 16 games. In 2017, Matakevich continued to develop as a player, serving as the backup inside linebacker. He made notable contributions, including blocking a punt in the season opener against the Cleveland Browns. He recorded 23 combined tackles and a pass deflection during the season.
Breakthrough (2020-2023)
After four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Matakevich signed a two-year contract with the Buffalo Bills on March 30, 2020. During his time with the Bills, he primarily played on special teams and served as a captain for three seasons. He signed multiple contract extensions, demonstrating his value to the team. On July 17, 2024, Matakevich returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers, signing a one-year contract. This marked a significant moment in his career as he rejoined the team that drafted him.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Matakevich has been recognized for his contributions on the field, including winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award in 2015. He has also been named a Consensus All-American and received multiple accolades during his college career.
Tyler Matakevich Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Tyler Matakevich has received several nominations and awards, particularly during his college years, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance on the field.
Tyler Matakevich Awards Won
Matakevich has won numerous awards, including the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and AAC Defensive Player of the Year, all in 2015. He has also been recognized as a Consensus All-American and received accolades such as Freshman All-American and Big East Rookie of the Year in 2012.
Tyler Matakevich Family
Information regarding Tyler Matakevich’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Tyler Matakevich’s personal life, including marital status or children, are not publicly disclosed.