Former Temple linebacker Tyler Matakevich added to 2027 ballot for College Football Hall of Fame
From 2012 to 2015, Matakevich recorded 493 total tackles, seven sacks, seven interceptions, and four forced fumbles at Temple, which set a program record.
Former Temple linebacker Tyler Matakevich was added to the 2027 ballot for the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame.
From 2012 to 2015, Matakevich logged a program-record 493 total tackles, seven sacks, seven interceptions, and four forced fumbles. He did most of his damage his senior year, where he helped the Owls gain a national ranking for the first time in 36 years. For his efforts, he was awarded the American’s Defensive Player of the Year and the Chuck Bednarik Award, which is given to the best defensive player in college football.
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“I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with Tyler this spring,” wrote Temple coach K.C. Keeler in a statement. “While that was the first time we met face-to-face, I was very familiar with his history. You can’t be part of the Temple football program without being in awe of Tyler Matakevich’s career.”
Added Arthur Johnson, Temple’s athletic director: “While I was not here during Tyler’s time as a student athlete, I am very well aware of his achievements. He was a tackling machine but more importantly, he was a leader who helped raise the level of those around him. It’s no surprise that his years at Temple were some of the best years in the history of our football program.”
Following his collegiate career, Matakevich was drafted by the Steelers in the seventh round of the 2016 draft. He played in the NFL for nine seasons, which included a stint with the Bills. He announced his retirement from football this spring.
If Matakevich is inducted, he would join running back Paul Palmer as the only other Owls player in the NFF College Football Hall of Fame. Templehas three coaches in the College Football Hall of Fame, inclduing Glenn “Pop” Warner, Ray Morrison, and Wayne Hardin.
The announcement of the 2027 NFF College Football Hall of Fame Class will be made in early 2027.