Clay Matthews (2005) - USC Athletics Hall of Fame

Clay Matthews

Induction:
2005
Class:
1978

Clay Matthews was one of the most reliable and productive linebackers in USC and NFL history. A 4-year (1974-77) letterman at USC, he was an All-American in 1977 when he was Troy’s captain and twice was an All-Conference first teamer (1976-77). He played on USC’s 1974 national championship squad, was on 4 bowl teams and played in the 1978 Hula Bowl. A 1978 first round draft pick of the Cleveland Browns, he played 19 seasons and 278 games with the Browns (1978-93) and Atlanta Falcons (1994-96). A 5-time Pro Bowl selection, his teams made 25 playoff appearances. He is a member of the Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor. He was one of 5 immediate family members to play in the NFL, along with father Clay Sr., brother (and fellow USC Athletic Hall of Famer) Bruce and sons Clay III, who also played at USC, and Casey. Another son, Kyle, was a walk-on safety at USC (2000-03). He then was a high school football coach.