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Oregon EDGE Matayo Uiagelelei Talks about His Spring and Becoming a Leader

On3 imageby:Justin Hopkins•04/17/25
Matayo Uiagalelei Washington
Oregon Ducks defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei and Bryce Boettcher against the Washington Huskies. (Photo by Eric Becker/ScoopDuckOn3)

Statistically speaking, Oregon EDGE Matayo Uiagelelei returns as one of the best players nationally at his position. Uiagelelei had some big plays in big moments for Oregon last season. Perhaps none bigger than his game-sealing interception against Wisconsin in Madison.

This year he returns as a veteran of the group and likely to see more snaps this season. It will be interesting to see what happens following this season for Uiagelelei regarding his NFL draft stock.

Here are some of his comments following Thursday’s practice. This is the first time we’ve heard from Uiagelelei this Spring.

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On Goals:

I think the way I set my goals is through each year. I have a performance goal. Not something statistically. Just thinking about my moves and creating something new. I don’t have a season goal yet. Obviously I want to have a better year but I don’t have a tangible goal yet.”

On New OT’s (World/Harkey):

“Both of those guys are really good. I felt like last year, Ajani and Josh are the best tackles I faced all year. Their different guys but I don’t really think there’s a drop off talent-wise. It’s cool to go against new guys who are very good. I don’t think anyone is far off from each other, the 2’s. It’s a good O-line room.”

On Developing Leadership:

“I’ll be honest, I think leadership is new for me. I was never a vocal guy in high school. Always just lead by example. Just talking more and express more to the team. We got a lot of older guys in the room, we all came in together so it’s kind of easy to lead in there.”

On Team Chemistry/Connection:

“Yeah. I definitely think so. It’s only the Spring but last year there was a lot more leadership. Every team is different of course. I feel like this is a funny team this year. A lot of cool personalities. We all hang out outside the locker room.”

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