Haloti Ngata had a standout NFL career, becoming one of the top defensive tackles of his time over 13 seasons. Drafted 12th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in 2006, Ngata made his mark on the field, earning five straight Pro Bowl selections from 2009 to 2013 and two First-Team All-Pro honors. He also helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII in 2012. After his time with the Ravens, he played for the Detroit Lions and finished his career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018.
Ngata retired with 519 tackles and 32.5 sacks, cementing his legacy as a dominant force on the defensive line. Ngata’s legacy lives on off the field through his son, Sam Ngata, a 2027 recruit who has already named Oregon—his father’s alma mater—his dream school, possibly continuing the family’s football tradition.
Sam Ngata Following Father’s Footsteps
Ngata has shown excitement about the chance to follow in his father’s footsteps by playing for the Oregon Ducks. At the 2025 Polynesian Bowl National Combine in Las Vegas, Sam, a 2027 recruit from Salt Lake City, Utah, shared with 247Sports that Oregon is his “dream school.”
Oregon Ducks ‘Dream School’ For 2027 Recruit Sam Ngata, Son of Haloti Ngata#GoDuckshttps://t.co/3cIj27MGSi
— Oregon Ducks On SI (@OregonDucks_SI) March 27, 2025
This connection to the program is strong, as his father played for the Ducks from 2002 to 2005 before moving on to a successful NFL career.
Although Sam didn’t go into detail about his reasons, his comments and presence at the combine suggest he hopes to continue the Ngata legacy at Oregon. Inspired by his father’s success, which led to his 2025 College Football Hall of Fame induction, Sam hopes to continue the Ngata legacy at Oregon.
“An outstanding human being who has always represented Oregon in a first-class manner, he truly defines what it means to be an all-American, and as a five-time Pro Bowler, he is also one of the most accomplished NFL players in Oregon history. Haloti is a true Duck legend, and we are proud to celebrate him his incredible legacy, and this honor,” said Oregon Athletic Director Rob Mullens when Ngata was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. With his strong connection to Oregon, it’s clear the Ducks would love to have his son join the program as well.
With Sam showing excitement about joining Oregon, it’s clear that the legacy of his father, Haloti, could continue at his alma mater.
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The Ducks would welcome the chance to add another Ngata to their roster, keeping the family’s football tradition alive and well. Fans will watch closely to see if Sam follows in his father’s footsteps and makes his dream of playing for Oregon a reality.
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