Interview: Clay Matthews partners with Salute to Service for USAA NFL Draft event

The NFL combines its efforts with USAA in its Salute to Service initiative to show gratitude and appreciation for military service members, past and present. For Clay Matthews, sharing his family's experience and exchanging stories with those who wear the uniform is an opportunity to extend his thanks back to the community.

Teaming up with Josh Jacobs, who also comes from a family of veterans, members of the Wisconsin National Guard will be able to meet and interact with the athletes throughout the NFL Draft build-up. On a night that is highly anticipated by football fans every year, being able to talk with someone who experienced hearing their names being called firsthand is only part of what makes this collaboration one-of-a-kind.

Matthews' grandfather, Clay Matthews Sr., served during the Korean War in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. The former Trojan also has other family members with direct military ties. While speaking with Reign of Troy, he made it known that for him, it's less of a 'meet-and-greet' and more of a chance to engage in fellowship.

Being able to share past experiences as a player and what was passed on to Matthews from his grandfather, for example, allows for the event to be a come-together centered around the commonality of the military in the lives of those who will be in attendance.

Naturally, part of the evening will turn to football and speculating which player will end up becoming a Packer. Exchanging experiences and looking to provide special interactions for the U.S. men and women will only add to the good atmosphere at the Epic Events Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

The NFL playing its part with USAA for a draft event like this shows what sports can bring to others beyond the football field. Matthews knows how others can perceive someone like him who has accomplished so much at USC and then as a pro. For him, those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice are true heroes, and taking a moment to show how much their dedication to our country means is a humbling privilege.

He went on to give his viewpoint on how sports can further impact people and positively influence society. Overcoming and learning how to function within a team-first concept is often an ever-evolving process. Learning lessons through practice and within games translates to other everyday applications.

Giving of oneself, learning how to deal with obstacles, and persevering are aspects that are true in all walks of life. For Matthews, being able to pull from his personal struggles and triumphs as an athlete, as well as the experiences that were passed on to him, allows for good conversations and back-and-forths that the servicemen and women will be able to relate to.

Important takeaway of true appreciation

When asked about what he hoped people would appreciate about the NFL's Salute to Service campaign with USAA, Matthews offered this message of support:

"Our climate is so political, left and right. But I think at the end of the day, whether you agree or disagree with whomever and whatever they have to say, I think it's supporting our military members who are at a moment's notice, you know, expected to serve our country and put their lives on the line."

Once a USC player, sitting and waiting during draft night, now a retired Super Bowl champion, the former linebacker continues to support those who paved the way through their commitments that allow all of us to tune into football on Sundays.  

Below are some shared moments from USAA between Jacobs, Matthews, and the service men and women.