Matthews’ path to the NFL has always been heavily connected to his family lineage. His father, Bruce Matthews, a Hall of Famer, set an extraordinary standard during his 19-season career by starting 229 straight games from 1987 to 2001. Jake Matthews is still on the rise in career mode. Along the way, he finds himself inspired and tested by the shadow his father cast.
Three years ago, Matthews had a bad break similar to the one he’s currently having when he sprained his ankle back on Week 6 against the Buffalo Bills. That injury almost stopped his remarkable streak. He did so with remarkable grit and grace. A week later, he was back in the starting lineup during the Falcons’ matchup with the San Francisco 49ers in Atlanta. His remarkable healing powers sustain such a streak as the longest, which can’t be overlooked.
NFL star Kirk Cousins congratulated Matthews on her accomplishment. “Any time you can play that long, stay that healthy, be that reliable, heal that fast, recover that well, it’s super rare,” he said. Cousins added that it is possible genetic factors have played a role in Matthews’ durability. He played up the Matthews clan’s impressive athletic bloodline.
Now, Jake Matthews finds himself within reach of another major milestone. If he does get the start against the Los Angeles Rams, he would tie Doug Dieken. That will leave him in fourth place for consecutive games started among all former Cleveland Browns linemen. If he plays the last two games of this season, he’ll be 35 games short of his father’s record. It’s a big goal but one that he is determined to see through.
This pursuit of record-breaking isn’t without its obstacles. Former Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard III trails Matthews in second place by a far margin, with 162 consecutive games started. At the same, Philip Rivers hung ‘em up in 2020, after an equally stellar 240-game run.
Beyond the physical demands of professional football, Matthews credits much of his success to his support system, especially his wife, Meggi. She was present for some of the most important moments in their lives, including when they brought home their son, Beckett Thomas. Matthews provided a powerful perspective on how and why family dynamics weigh on athletes’ performances and mental health.
“It’s like, I try not to freak out and think, ‘Am I going to play in this game?’” said Jake Matthews, reflecting on the pressures of maintaining his streak while balancing family responsibilities. His dedication to practice and preparedness is on full display by the poise with which he approaches each day. Bruce Matthews noted his son’s dedication: “Obviously starting in the offseason with his workouts, but he’s got a whole regimen that he goes through every evening.”
Matthews’ journey is as much about legacy and commitment as it is about dollar figures. His performance week in and week out speaks to his on the field talent but even more importantly highlights the character that his family has taught him. Chris Lindstrom, a teammate, remarked on the impact of Jake Matthews’ story: “He shared that story with me and it was cool.”
Jake Matthews’ unbroken quest to match his father’s NFL mark and as he continues to carve his own legacy in the process, fans and players alike can’t help but enjoy the show. His focus and drive are inspiring not only of his own accomplishments but that of a proud family’s legacy in the game of football.
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