In this in-depth exploration, we delve into the life and career of Matthew John Breida, the talented American football running back who currently shines for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). This article not only uncovers his journey through the NFL but also provides insights into his early life, family, education, contracts, and net worth.
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Early Life and Education of Matt Breida
Matthew John Breida, popularly known as Matt Breida, entered this world on February 28, 1995, in Brandon, Florida. His life took an interesting turn when he was adopted by his loving parents, Mike Breida (Father) and Terri (Mother), on March 2, 1995.
During his formative years, Matt attended Nature Coast Technical High School, situated in Brooksville, Florida. It was here that he first showcased his football prowess as a member of the high school football team known as the Sharks.
However, his impact went beyond the field. Matt was also actively involved in volunteer work, serving as a reader and speaker at elementary schools across two different states.
his commitment to his community not only showcased his character but also contributed to his nomination as a Senior Class Award finalist and an esteemed Honor Roll member during his time at Georgia Southern.
Matt Breida’s Family and Siblings
On that fateful day, March 2, 1995, Terri and Mike Breida welcomed Matt into their lives through adoption. Later, they extended their family further by adopting a second child, Josh. This nurturing family environment played a crucial role in shaping Matt’s journey to success.
However, it’s important to note that Matt’s adoptive parents faced their own set of challenges. Independently disabled due to chronic health problems and car accidents in 2006 and 2003, respectively, Terri and Mike displayed unwavering resilience and love in raising their two sons.
Together, they relocated from Hudson, Florida, to Spring Hill, just north of Tampa. This move paved the way for Matt to attend Nature Coast Technical High School in nearby Brooksville, where he embarked on his football journey.
Matt Breida’s NFL Journey and Contracts
In 2017, Matt Breida’s dream of playing in the NFL became a reality when he signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent.
His journey with the 49ers showcased his determination and skill as a running back. However, the NFL landscape is ever-evolving, and in March 2022, Matt Breida took a significant step in his career by signing a lucrative one-year contract with the New York Giants.
This contract, worth $1,400,000, included a $200,000 signing bonus and $500,000 guaranteed. It marked a new chapter in Matt’s career as he joined the Giants, eager to make an impact on the field.
In 2023, his salary details include a base salary of $1,150,000, a signing bonus of $200,000, and a workout bonus of $50,000. All these numbers contribute to a total cap hit of $1,400,000, with a dead cap value of $500,000.
Matt Breida’s Impressive Net Worth
As of 2023, Matt Breida’s estimated net worth stands at a remarkable $25.8 million. This substantial figure reflects his financial standing, encompassing his assets, earnings, and income sources. While his NFL career has undoubtedly been a major contributor to his wealth, Matt Breida is known for his preference for a modest lifestyle despite his financial success.
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From High School Sweethearts to NFL Stardom
Matt Breida’s journey to the NFL had its roots in his high school days. Back in 2011, Matt and Silvana Breida were more than just high school sweethearts; they were also teammates on their school’s varsity football team.
Matt was the powerhouse running back, while Silvana was the reliable kicker who added the crucial extra points. Their chemistry extended beyond the football field, as they navigated their teenage years together.
Silvana fondly reminisces about those days, saying, “Matt would score a touchdown, and as he’d be coming off the field, I’d run out to kick the extra point. And we were dating throughout high school. Now it’s funny that we’re in this position.”
Matt Breida: A Humble NFL Star
Fast forward to today, and Matt Breida is the NFL’s leading rusher. However, what sets him apart isn’t just his on-field prowess but his down-to-earth personality. Unlike many athletes in the spotlight, Matt remains low-key, both on and off social media.
When asked about his limited social media presence, he said, “I don’t do Facebook, any of that.” This humility is something that has defined Matt throughout his life, drawing people to him, including Silvana.
Matt Breida just made it a one-possession game 👀 @MattBreida#NYGvsSF on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/qDMTitSHZs pic.twitter.com/5QT2OR4KOG— NFL (@NFL) September 22, 2023
A Humble Beginning
Matt’s upbringing played a significant role in shaping his character. Born in Brandon, Florida, in 1995, Matt was adopted by Mike and Terri Breida just two days after his birth.
His parents, originally from Philadelphia, had moved to Florida due to his father’s health issues. Unfortunately, both of Matt’s parents eventually ended up in wheelchairs due to health problems.
This challenging family situation taught Matt the value of humility and frugality. Mike Breida, Matt’s father, recalls, “Once Terri stopped working, money got really tight for us. He was never the type of kid who said, ‘My friend’s got $160 sneakers, I gotta have ’em, too.’ He understood. He’s still that way.”
Overcoming the Odds
In high school, Matt faced skepticism due to his small stature, a concern that continued into his college years at Georgia Southern.
Despite being nicknamed “Breida the Cheetah” and “He Gone” for his remarkable speed, doubts persisted about his ability to endure the rigors of professional football.
Charles Liggett, his high school coach, remembers Matt as a tiny but relentless player. “I can remember looking out during a junior varsity game, and he’d go to break through a hole, and one of the bigger JV kids would grab him and fling him like a rag doll. And he just kept going and going.”
What his coaches soon realized was that Matt possessed an unparalleled drive and tenacity that surpassed his physical stature.
Silvana Breida: Breaking Barriers
Silvana Breida’s journey is equally inspiring. She first noticed Matt when he was a 9-year-old playing on her brother’s youth-league team while she was a cheerleader.
But it was during their sophomore year in high school that they started dating, and Silvana decided she wanted to be on the field, not just on the sidelines.
Her determination led her to become the kicker for the varsity football team. Matt admired her dedication, saying, “All she had was her soccer experience.
So she would go out to any field she could, kick a bunch of field goals. She was playing with us. All the football workouts that we did, she did. She was getting just as strong as we were.”
Paving the Way
Silvana’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. There were opposing players who resisted her presence on the field, leading to penalties and hostility from the stands.
Despite these obstacles, she continued to excel, making kicks and pushing the boundaries of what was traditionally considered a male-dominated sport.
In the end, Silvana decided to step away from football before her senior season, citing resistance from some coaches and a desire to focus on soccer.
Nevertheless, she achieved her goal of becoming the first female varsity football player in Hernando County, setting the stage for her younger sister, Santina, who would follow in her footsteps and kick for the same school five years later.
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