Updated July 22, 2026, 2:36 p.m. ET
Summer is here, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Bucs fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Tampa Bay.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Bucs, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Bucs fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
FilmNeed a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!Background InfoListed at 6-5/272lbs.5-Star prospect according to 247 SportsPlayed defensive line and tight endFirst-team All-Big Ten in 2024Notable career stats heading into 202625 Tackles for a Loss17 SacksNotable numbers from PFF heading into 2026Lines up the most at LE (22% of snaps) 66 QB Hurries6 Passes batted at the line of scrimmage55 Defensive stopsPass Rush Win Rate of 25.7%StrengthsBig time powerExcellent size and lengthStrong handsGood balanceExplodes into the backfield in spacePlayer Summary
Matayo Uiagalelei has some tools in which he can work with, but he remains a work in progress. He leans on his power too much, but he can win with it at a decent rate. He has great size and length, and it makes you want to see him use his leverage more, but he gets too comfortable with the power. He could be a better pro than a college player in the right spot, but right now, for me, he is a very big, yet promising, project.