University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Tackle Matt Goncalves Selected by Colts in NFL Draft
4/26/2024 10:37:00 PM | Football
Pitt's pro football pipeline continued tonight as offensive tackle Matt Goncalves was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round (79th overall pick) of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Pitt has now had at least one player selected in 11 consecutive NFL drafts dating back to 2014.
Goncalves becomes the 26th draft pick under Coach Pat Narduzzi (since 2015). He is the first Pitt player to be drafted by the Colts since linebacker Clint Session in 2007.
Measuring 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds, Goncalves (Manorville, N.Y./Eastport-South Manor) played in 38 games, starting 24 on the Panthers' offensive front.
He boasts experience at both left and right tackle. Although his 2023 season was limited to three games (and three starts) due to injury, Goncalves was an All-ACC performer during the 2022 campaign, paving the way for a 1,000-yard rusher and 1,000-yard receiver.
"Matt played a lot of football on our offensive line the past four years and played at a high level," Narduzzi said. "He's a leader, highly intelligent and incredibly tough, which was on display at our Pro Day following his offseason injury rehab. The Colts are not only getting an excellent tackle but also someone who will be a leader in the locker room. That's why he was a team captain for us."
The NFL Draft continues on Saturday with rounds four through seven.
