The talented Bayron Matos is making the most of his opportunity with the Miami Dolphins practice squad and eagerly awaits his moment to make history in the NFL.
The Dominican offensive tackle, currently part of the Dolphins’ practice squad, is being called a dual-threat. Similar to established athletes like Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, a Super Bowl winner, and Bo Jackson, an All-Star in baseball and a Pro Bowl NFL player, Matos has showcased his prowess in multiple sports. While Wilson was drafted in baseball before transitioning to football, Matos has played professionally in both American football and basketball, demonstrating a remarkable athletic versatility.
Originally from Los Minas, Santo Domingo, Matos initially believed his future would lie in basketball. At 16, he moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, to pursue both academics and athletics on a scholarship. He attended the University of New Mexico, later transferring to the University of South Florida (USF) to play basketball. Encouraged by coaches at USF, Matos decided to try out for the football team, curious about the sport that his host family had suggested he might excel in due to his build, speed, and strength. Although he trained with the football team, Matos did not play any games at that time, sticking to basketball.
In a remarkable turn, during the 2022-2023 season, he played as a power forward for the Diablos de Miranda in Venezuela’s Professional Basketball Super League. While in Venezuela, he got the call to try out for the NFL’s International Player Pathway program, which focuses on increasing the number of international players in the league. As a result, Matos finds himself in a unique position: pursuing both professional basketball in Venezuela and a potential NFL career in 2024.
Now on the Dolphins’ practice squad, Matos and his teammates are prepared to step up to the active roster when needed, learning all the same plays, traveling with the team, and being treated as integral members. Matos is also focused on refining his skills, emphasizing that while talent is important, dedication is crucial to success. He notes that his training has been challenging, particularly noting the increased pace of NFL games compared to what he experienced in college football.
Despite the challenges of adjusting to the NFL’s speed, Matos refuses to see them as obstacles. He appreciates the support he’s received from coaches and veteran players like Terron Armstead and Isaiah Wynn. Beyond the field, Matos takes the opportunity to share aspects of his culture with his teammates through music, dance, and traditional food, bringing a lively spirit to the locker room.
In summary, Bayron Matos embodies a remarkable story of adaptability and determination. His journey reflects the possibilities that arise from hard work and resilience, and as he continues to hone his skills in both basketball and football, he stands on the cusp of potentially leaving a significant mark on the NFL landscape. The support from his teammates and coaches, combined with his unique background, fuels hope for a bright future in professional sports.