Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show – "Lots to Say: Super Bowl Champion Clay Matthews"

Episode Details

• Title: Lots to Say: Super Bowl Champion Clay Matthews
• Host: Bobby Bones
• Guest: Clay Matthews
• Release Date: April 16, 2025
• Produced By: Premiere Networks

Introduction

In this episode of The Bobby Bones Show, host Bobby Bones engages in an in-depth conversation with Clay Matthews, a celebrated Super Bowl-winning linebacker from a renowned NFL family dynasty. The discussion spans Matthews' early life, collegiate journey, professional career, personal experiences, and transition into life after football.

Clay Matthews' Family and Early Life

[01:25] Bobby Bones: "Clay Matthews, the one and only Clay Matthews. This guy comes from a family dynasty of NFL football..."

Clay Matthews opens up about his illustrious family background in the NFL, tracing his lineage back to his grandfather, Clay Matthews Sr., and highlighting the careers of his father Clay Matthews Jr., his brother Bruce Matthews, and his cousins and brother Casey Matthews—all of whom have made significant marks in the NFL.

[02:06] Matthews: "Super Bowl winning linebacker. You know, he's an incredible person and also an incredible player and a friend of mine."

College Football Journey

The conversation delves into Matthews' college years at the University of Southern California (USC), where he and Matt Castle were teammates. Matthews shares anecdotes about their early days, struggles to secure starting positions, and eventual breakthroughs.

[04:10] Matthews: "I remember the first time I met you, you weren't even at USC yet. Kyle and I had a day off..."

He recounts a memorable paintball experience orchestrated by Matt's father, which showcased the competitive spirit that both Matthews and Castle carried into their football careers.

[05:11] Matthews: "190 pounds soaking wet does not look like the man he is today..."

Discussing his transformation from a walk-on to a standout player, Matthews emphasizes the importance of perseverance and personal growth during his college tenure.

NFL Career with Green Bay Packers

Matthews discusses his entry into the NFL as a first-round pick by the Green Bay Packers, detailing the unexpected nature of the trade that brought him to the team and his initial experiences.

[10:17] Matthews: "I wasn't flustered or, you know, the money, the fame, whatever that comes with it, it was just like, all right, this is cool..."

He highlights his adaptability and work ethic, which contributed to his immediate success and eventual accolades, including becoming the Packers' all-time sack leader.

[12:07] Matthews: "My third year. So that was my, I redshirted..."

Explaining the scholarship process as a walk-on, Matthews underscores the significance of earning his place through consistent performance and dedication.

[14:36] Matthews: "Baker, Mayfield, J.J. Watt. These guys were walk-ons who have gone on to do amazing things..."

He reflects on the value of walk-ons in college football, acknowledging their role in building resilient and versatile teams.

Transition to the Los Angeles Rams and Later Career

After an illustrious tenure with Green Bay, Matthews transitions to the Los Angeles Rams, sharing insights into adjusting to a new locker room environment and proving his worth once again.

[52:56] Matthews: "I thought it was great. I felt like I could play another five, six years..."

He describes the camaraderie and challenges of joining a new team, working alongside elite players like Aaron Donald, and embracing a fresh start despite the eventual release due to organizational changes.

Personal Life and Post-Retirement Activities

Beyond the gridiron, Matthews discusses his life off the field, including his dedication to family and his passion for farming and sustainability.

[57:14] Matthews: "We were fortunate to get about 200 acres close to town. And I've always loved the outdoors..."

He elaborates on his farming projects, such as planting chestnut trees and reintroducing wildlife to his land, highlighting his commitment to environmental stewardship and community.

[62:51] Matthews: "But it also helps that the narrative around athletes is like, you're an idiot..."

Addressing personal development, Matthews emphasizes the importance of hard work, humility, and passing on knowledge to his children without succumbing to external pressures or stereotypes.

Reflections on Football and Legacy

In reflecting on his career, Matthews shares memorable moments, challenges, and lessons learned from competing against some of the NFL's greatest quarterbacks, including Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers.

[39:17] Matthews: "I don't think I ever, I might have jumped off size once in my 11-year career because of going against Aaron every day in practice..."

He pays tribute to his peers, acknowledging their influence on his professional growth and the mutual respect that defines relationships within the league.

[30:22] Matthews: "It's cool. I'm just thankful Reggie White didn't play his whole career there..."

Discussing achievements, Matthews expresses gratitude for his time with the Packers and the enduring friendships forged through shared successes and challenges.

Closing Remarks

As the episode winds down, Matthews and Bobby Bones engage in lighthearted banter and playful interactions, highlighting Matthews' personable nature and continued enthusiasm for both football and life beyond the sport.

[68:28] Bobby Bones: "We're gonna do something fun here. Matt, I want you to blind rank your USC 2004 teammates..."

The conversation concludes on a warm note, reinforcing the strong rapport between host and guest and leaving listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Clay Matthews' multifaceted life and career.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [02:06] Matthews: "Super Bowl winning linebacker. You know, he's an incredible person and also an incredible player and a friend of mine."
• [05:11] Matthews: "190 pounds soaking wet does not look like the man he is today."
• [10:17] Matthews: "I wasn't flustered or, you know, the money, the fame, whatever that comes with it, it was just like, all right, this is cool."
• [14:36] Matthews: "Baker, Mayfield, J.J. Watt. These guys were walk-ons who have gone on to do amazing things..."
• [57:14] Matthews: "We were fortunate to get about 200 acres close to town. And I've always loved the outdoors..."
• [39:17] Matthews: "I don't think I ever, I might have jumped off size once in my 11-year career because of going against Aaron every day in practice..."
• [30:22] Matthews: "It's cool. I'm just thankful Reggie White didn't play his whole career there."

This episode offers listeners an engaging and comprehensive look into Clay Matthews' life, providing valuable insights into the dedication, resilience, and versatility required to excel both on and off the football field.