It’s not every day that an engineer leaves Lockheed Martin to play in the NFL, but that’s exactly what University of Central Florida aerospace engineering alumnus Matthew Wright, ’18 is about to do.
Wright signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent — one of four UCF Knights to do so — shortly after the final round of draft picks was announced.
It’s a dream come true for the former UCF placekicker, who is one of the most accomplished players in the university’s history. He holds the all-time records for field goals made, extra points and total career points, and is also a Peach Bowl champion.
“I’m very excited! I always knew that it was a possibility but now that it’s actually happening, it’s surreal,” Wright said. “I’m looking forward to the challenging opportunity of advancing my football career.”
The UCF alumnus graduated in December and works at Lockheed Martin as a systems engineer. He said that the company is very supportive of his football career and will be holding his position for him in case he should ever go back.
No matter what path his career takes, be it to the Pittsburgh Steelers or to space, Wright credits UCF for leading him to success both on and off the field.
“Over the past two seasons, the atmosphere of playing in the bounce house was something that I’ll never forget. Additionally, being a part of such a large university has well prepared me for being a part of a large organization,” Wright said. “And I guess it doesn’t hurt that most of my closet is black and yellow.”
Learn more about the newest Steeler in the college’s 2018 profile on Wright.
- Written by Marisa Ramiccio