Scouting Journals for Matayo Uiagalelei

A big jumbo athlete who doubles as a tight end and defensive end for one of the nation’s top high school programs. Has unique movement skills and speed at 6-foot-5 and over 260 pounds. Is able to run with linebackers and some defensive backs at his size. Has shown some improvement as a pass catcher over the course of 2021. Likely has a higher long-term upside as a defensive lineman or even offensive tackle rather than tight end. A flexible athlete off the edge who shows the ability to dip and bend at his size. Upped his production on defense as a senior, registering 12.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks. Can continue to increase his physicality on a snap-to-snap basis.

Matayo Uiagalelei and St. John Bosco took on Mater Dei in a matchup of top-ranked teams. Uiagalelei looked like the top prospect on the field. The 6-foot-6, 270-pounder made some impressive plays on both sides of the ball early on. The top 20 junior had a big pass rush and near sack along with a tackle for loss on Oklahoma commit Raleek Brown. He also flashed some athleticism at tight end, catching a back shoulder pass from Michigan State quarterback commit Katin Houser near the pylon. Uiagalelei tapered off a bit in the second half along with the Bosco offense. It’s worth noting he’s playing both ways and is likely to tire out faster than others.

Uiagalelei worked out at both defensive line and tight end in two separate sessions at Clemson's camp. He looked like a natural on defense and appears to project best on that side of the ball long term. Uiagalelei moved well in drills and showed some speed to power and pass rush moves in 1-on-1 clips tweeted by his father. He is not quite as polished as a tight end at this point, particularly when it comes to route running and consistently catching the ball with proper technique. Uiagalelei still showed some unique athleticism in being able to separate from defensive backs at his size.