Fred Matua (January 14, 1984 – August 5, 2012) was an American football guard. After playing college football for Southern California, he was selected by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL draft. He was also a member of the Lions, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Washington Redskins, Florida Tuskers, and Omaha Nighthawks.

Early life

Born in Wilmington, California, Matua prepped at Banning High School in Wilmington, California where he won the 2000 LA City 4A Championship his junior year.

College career

While playing college football for the USC Trojans, Matua was an All-American guard in 2005.

Professional career

Matua was selected on the second day by the National Football League's Detroit Lions but was cut by the team and was signed to the Tennessee Titans practice squad. On October 28, 2006, he was signed to the Cleveland Browns roster. Matua was signed by the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League on September 3, 2009.

Death

On August 5, 2012, Matua died at the age of 28 of a heart-related issue.