Oregon Ducks defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei has grown significantly in the past few years, boosting his recruiting and sponsorship opportunities. Uiagalelei is a sophomore, five-star, impact defender who has an explosive, aggressive, and well-rounded pass-rushing ability.
His sponsorship opportunities are on the rise due to the NCAA, which has expanded its guidelines around NIL transactions. So, what will be the worth of his NIL deals, and what is fueling his earning ability? Here’s everything you will need to know about Matayo Uiagalelei’s NIL contracts, net worth, and more.
The Value of Matayo Uiagalelei’s NIL Deals
As per On3’s NIL valuation, Matayo Uiagalelei’s NIL deals are valued to be $289,000 as of the end of October 2024. He is ranked No. 340 among college football players. This valuation is established based on all of the metrics that he has reached as a 5-star recruit, now 5-star defensive player.
Details about the player’s endorsement deals are not public yet, however, Uiagalelei is marketable because of his dominance on the field and the historic NIL reputation that the Oregon Ducks have established, which is further bolstered by the backing of Nike co-founder Phil Knight.
Oregon’s aggressive approach to NIL has built a “super squad,” with Uiagalelei among the beneficiaries. His valuation is comparable to teammates like Kobe Savage ($283,000) and Jestin Jacobs ($281,000), highlighting the Ducks’ deep investment in talent.
A notable deal includes a partnership with Pathway Sports and Entertainment for college football video game rights, which has become a great avenue for many Ducks players.
Matayo Uiagalelei’s Marketability
Uiagalelei’s appeal extends beyond stats. Born on July 2, 2005, in Bellflower, Calif., he was a top-20 recruit in the 2023 class, according to Rivals.com, and chose Oregon over Alabama, USC, and Clemson. His high school dominance at St. John Bosco, where he played both defensive end and tight end, gave a show of his versatility.
One of the most significant moments of his career came in 2023 when he sacked his brother, DJ Uiagalelei, then Oregon State’s quarterback, earning Pac-12 Freshman of the Week honors.
In 2024, Uiagalelei’s sophomore campaign solidified his star status. He recorded 37 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and three pass deflections, leading the Big Ten in sacks. His performance against Purdue, where he performed three tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack, earned him Ducks Wire Player of the Game.
Despite his $289,000 valuation, Uiagalelei’s NIL earnings lag behind top-tier stars, reflecting his status as a defensive player in a quarterback-driven market. However, his youth, 19 years old with two years of eligibility, gives him more potential for growth.
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Continued prime performance, especially in the College Football Playoff, could elevate his valuation significantly.
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