In a small town in Idaho, the legacy of a high school football player has left a lasting impact on the community. Matt Holtry, who has been coaching football in Homedale for 16 years, faced a unique situation with one of his players, Scott Matlock. Matlock was a standout on both offense and defense, requiring two jerseys to accommodate his skills on the field.
As the years passed, Matlock’s talent shone brightly, both at Homedale High School and later at Boise State University. Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the sixth round, Matlock continued to wear his familiar number, 99, as a defensive lineman. When it came time to retire his number in Homedale, a decision had to be made – would it be the number 44 or the number 99?
Coach Holtry reflected on the situation with pride, stating to USA TODAY Sports, “It was kind of surreal that happened the way it did.” Ultimately, the number 44 jersey was enshrined, symbolizing Matlock’s offensive prowess with the Chargers.
Despite his success on defense, Matlock has recently found himself making a significant impact on the offensive side of the ball. With a new coaching staff in place, Matlock was given the number 44 jersey, a sign that he would have an increased role in the offense. Through five games, Matlock has seen a substantial increase in his offensive snaps, showcasing his versatility as a player.
As Pro Football Reference data reveals, Matlock is among a select group of players who have taken snaps on both offense and defense this season. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game has been a valuable asset to the Chargers. With his unique skill set, Matlock has proven to be a vital piece of the team’s success.
Reflecting on his journey, Matlock shared with USA TODAY Sports, “The last six weeks, seven weeks, they’ve definitely been fun. It’s just been going by so quick, as life does.” At just 24 years old, Matlock has faced more adversity than most, transitioning from foster care to becoming a standout college football player and ultimately an NFL draft pick.
Matlock’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout his life. After enduring the loss of both parents at a young age, he found himself navigating the challenges of the foster care system. However, through hard work and dedication, Matlock persevered and turned his dreams of playing in the NFL into a reality.
As Matlock continues to make his mark in the NFL, his story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the resilience of the human spirit. With each game, he showcases his talent and determination, further solidifying his place in football history. And as he looks toward the future, there is no doubt that Scott Matlock’s impact on the game will be felt for years to come.
