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Matt Goncalves — the Indianapolis Colts’ rookie tackle from Manorville — is set to make his NFL starting debut Sunday night on NBC Sunday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings.
It’s a moment that brings both tremendous pride and nerves to his family back home in Port Jefferson Station.
Matt’s father Bill is gathering at home with family, including Matt’s brothers, Billy and Chris, and his wife and two stepdaughters for what he described as “A nice watch party!”
Bill Goncalves shared his range of emotions with Greater Long Island, noting that he spoke with his son last night about the big game.
“I’m a little nervous for his first start, but I also have a belief in him that has grown over the years watching him at Pitt and knowing the type of player and person he has become,” he said. “He has a quiet confidence going into tonight. He has put in the work, and now it’s just going out and executing. I believe he is ready.”
The 23-year-old Goncalves will fill in for starting left tackle Bernhard Raimann, who is sidelined with a concussion. For the first-year pro, it’s an especially significant challenge, given Minnesota’s relentless defense, which features complex blitz schemes and simulated pressures.
But Goncalves happens to be familiar with this particular type of defensive scheme, given that it was inspired by his coach at Pitt, Pat Narduzzi. He will be protecting veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, 39, who is filling in for the underperforming Anthony Richardson, a former first-round draft pick.
Drafted 79th overall in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Goncalves has shown resilience and grit across his grid iron journey, especially after overcoming a major injury that sidelined him last fall for most of his senior season at Pitt.
His family’s excitement has been palpable since his draft night, a proud moment Bill Goncalves captured when he said of Matt and his brothers’ tearful hug: “That as a father was maybe the most important thing of the night to me.”
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