The college football scene is full of dream-come-true moments, and Oregon LB Matayo Uiagalelei may add another chapter next year. Currently ranked #3 nationally and sitting at 5–0, the Ducks owe much of their success to players like him. His game-winning performances have put him into the NFL conversation, and when those draft predictions come out, everyone around you wonders about the best spot. Well, his father knows that spot.

Dave “Big Dave” Uiagalelei has been the most vocal of the fans of both his sons. Matayo, of course, features for the Ducks. Then there’s DJ Uiagalelei, whose stint with Florida State shouldn’t be the last memory you have of his college career. Before his Noles experience, DJ impressed at Clemson and Oregon State. That was probably the reason why he was selected as an undrafted free agent by the LA Chargers in April this year. There’s potential, and Jim Harbaugh is looking to harness it. How does this affect his brother’s landing spot?

Big Dave took to X to declare, “1st round to the CHARGERS is the best-case scenario for me as a father; having both sons on the same team is a father’s dream.” That’s the post. Matayo and DJ, both playing for the Chargers.

Interestingly, CBS Sports recently released a mock draft that slots Matayo at No. 26 to the Los Angeles Chargers. Emphasizing the franchise’s need for an explosive edge rusher and his capacity to thrive in their defense.

Matayo’s growth has been nothing short of phenomenal. A five-star recruit from St. John Bosco High School, with 15 career sacks before arriving in Eugene. He has grown in leaps and bounds from just 2.0 sacks in his freshman year to 10.5 sacks in 2024. He exploded, earning All-Big Ten First Team honors. So far in 2025, he has 4.0 sacks, 12 tackles, and 3 tackles for loss in five games, becoming the Ducks’ defensive cornerstone under Dan Lanning.

As Dane Brugler of The Athletic observes, “With his well-rounded skill set, Uiagalelei reminds me of JT Tuimoloau, who led the Big Ten in sacks in 2024 and was a 2025 second-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts. Neither player wows with their get-off, but both are agile and play with polish, physicality, and strength. It is easy to envision Uiagalelei becoming a solid pro.”

Finally, returning to CBS Sports’ No. 26 projection, Matayo’s fit on the Chargers defense is undeniable. Given that Los Angeles ranks near the bottom in sack rate in 2025, the addition of an elite edge rusher would address a glaring need. Beyond on-field impact, uniting two brothers will prove that, sometimes, fairy tales really do come true.

Brothers to potential teammates: Rise of Matayo and DJ

DJ Uiagalelei made it to the NFL first. Going through Clemson, Oregon State, and Florida State before heading to the Chargers in 2025. He impressed coaches with poise, decision-making, and leadership, leading up to a preseason line of 19/35 for 244 yards, two touchdowns, one interception, and a practice-squad spot in August. As the third-string quarterback, DJ earns $13,000–$25,850 weekly while learning the ropes in the NFL.

Playing both brothers together creates a uniquely lucrative Image rights and Licensing opportunity. Dj’s offensive skills, paired with Matayo’s edge rushing and defensive qualities, provide the Chargers with much sought-after squad depth and quality. Their journey from the backyard to the mighty stage of the NFL is a point of immense pride and happiness for their family, especially Dave.