Moliki Matavao (born March 17, 2003) is an American professional football tight end for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Oregon Ducks and the UCLA Bruins. Matavao was selected by the Saints in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL draft.
Early life and high school.
Matavao attended Liberty High School in Henderson, Nevada, and was rated as a four-star recruit. He committed to play college football for the Oregon Ducks over offers from Georgia, Penn State, and UCLA.
College career.
Oregon.
As a freshman in 2021, Matavao recorded nine receptions for 75 yards and a touchdown for Oregon. In 2022, he totaled ten receptions for 134 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a touchdown on the ground. After the 2022 season, Matavao entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.
UCLA.
Matavao transferred to play for the UCLA Bruins. In 2023, he hauled in 14 receptions for 266 yards and two touchdowns. In week 12, Matavao tallied seven receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown versus Washington. In the 2024 regular-season finale, Matavao notched eight receptions for 120 yards versus Fresno State.
Professional career.
Matavao was drafted by the New Orleans Saints with the 248th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL draft.