Scott Matlock, who wore No. 99 with the Chargers earlier in his career, now wears the 44 that was retired by his high school. (Associated Press)
Matt Holtry had no inside knowledge or crystal ball when he made the decision. The football coach at Homedale (Idaho) High had multiple options when choosing which of Scott Matlock’s jersey numbers to retire this summer.
An offensive lineman, defensive lineman and tight end at the small high school in Western Idaho, the Chargers’ 2023 sixth-round draft pick commonly changed jerseys on the sideline between drives.
The number that would be honored as Homedale’s first retired jersey, Holtry decided, would be 44, the one Matlock wore primarily as a star tight end. Holtry placed the red and white jersey in a frame for a ceremony in July.
Less than two months later, Matlock was wearing the number again in the Chargers’ powder blue and gold.
The new jersey number is just a reminder of what Matlock’s always done. From Homedale to Boise State to the Chargers, Matlock has taken versatility to new heights.
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The Chargers’ fullback and defensive lineman is the NFL’s only two-way player, appearing in 36% of the team’s offensive snaps, 19.7% on defense and 57.8% on special teams.
“He’s an ol’ iron man,” Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz said.
CBS announcers rarely miss a chance to point out the nearly 300-pound blocker when he crouches down in the backfield. Social media users marvel at how Matlock is “built different.”
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh gushed that Matlock is so well conditioned that he not only can play multiple positions in one game, but he also could play multiple games back to back.
The Chargers’ Scott Matlock lines up as a defensive lineman against Steelers offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. (65). (Matt Durisko / Associated Press)
Thrilled but unsurprised by his star pupil’s ascent, Holtry knows Matlock isn’t different…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/hes-just-type-freak-chargers-100025984.html
Author : LA Times
Publish date : 2024-10-11 10:00:25
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