Last Updated on October 30, 2026 by Mariah Miranda
Matt Araiza is an American football punter for the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). Born on May 16, 2000, in San Diego, California, his full name is Matthew Ryan Araiza. He played college football at San Diego State University before being selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Beyond his professional football career, Matt Araiza comes from a supportive family with Mexican-American roots. His parents are Rico Araiza and Kerry Araiza, who encouraged his athletic development throughout childhood. He also has an older brother who played an important role in introducing him to football kicking.
Araiza is engaged to Layla Murray, a registered nurse whom he met at San Diego State University. The couple announced their engagement in March 2026 and have discussed plans for a wedding in 2028.
Here is everything publicly known about Matt Araiza’s girlfriend, children, parents, siblings and family background.
Matt Araiza’s Girlfriend: Layla Murray
Layla Murray is Matt Araiza’s longtime girlfriend and fiancée. She is an American registered nurse and social media content creator who has supported the Kansas City Chiefs punter during his professional football career.
The couple met at San Diego State University, where Araiza developed into one of the most accomplished punters in college football.
Their relationship became publicly visible through social media photographs, including posts celebrating Araiza’s birthday in May 2024.
In March 2026, the couple announced their engagement, marking an important milestone in their relationship.
Who Is Layla Murray?
Layla Murray is a registered nurse who has developed a significant social media following through videos about her personal life, healthcare career and experiences supporting an NFL player.
According to reporting by The Kansas City Star, Murray completed her nursing education in 2025.
A September 2025 report also documented Araiza celebrating her nursing school graduation.
Published biographical reporting has associated Murray with pediatric intensive care nursing and other healthcare activities.
However, her current hospital or specific nursing position has not been independently established through recent official employment records.
Beyond healthcare, Murray shares lifestyle content through Instagram and TikTok.
Her posts frequently feature Kansas City Chiefs games, travel experiences, relationships and activities with other NFL players’ partners.
In 2026, The Kansas City Star reported that she had developed a substantial following on TikTok, where her videos had attracted millions of likes.
Although she is publicly recognized through her relationship with Araiza, Murray has also built her own professional identity in healthcare and digital content creation.
How Did Matt Araiza Meet Layla Murray?
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray met while attending San Diego State University in California.
The Kansas City Star confirmed their university connection in reporting about the relationships of Kansas City Chiefs players during the 2026 season.
However, the exact circumstances of their first meeting and the date they officially began dating have not been established through a detailed public interview.
Their relationship was publicly documented by May 2024, when Murray celebrated Araiza’s birthday on social media.
She subsequently accompanied him during important moments of his professional football career.
After Araiza joined Kansas City in 2024, Murray became increasingly visible among the partners of Chiefs players.
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray’s Engagement
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray announced their engagement on March 15, 2026.
Murray shared photographs of the proposal on Instagram, confirming that she had accepted Araiza’s marriage proposal.
According to Sporting News, the engagement announcement included a collection of 14 photographs, matching Araiza’s Chiefs jersey number.
The photographs showed the couple celebrating beside a river with a city skyline in the background.
Other images featured Murray displaying her engagement ring and embracing Araiza.
The announcement attracted congratulatory messages from friends, supporters and members of the Kansas City Chiefs community.
The engagement represented an important personal milestone as Araiza prepared for his third season with Kansas City.
When Will Matt Araiza and Layla Murray Get Married?
As of now, Matt Araiza and Layla Murray are planning a wedding in 2028.
The couple’s wedding plans were reported by The Kansas City Star in October 2026.
Although a wedding year has been publicly discussed, their exact ceremony date and venue have not been reliably confirmed.
Therefore, Murray should be described as Araiza’s fiancée rather than his wife.
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray’s Trip to Egypt
In October 2026, Matt Araiza and Layla Murray traveled to Egypt during the Kansas City Chiefs’ bye week.
The couple attended the wedding of one of Murray’s cousins near the Giza pyramids outside Cairo.
Murray was a member of the wedding party and shared photographs and videos documenting the celebration.
The trip also included visits to the pyramids and other activities around the Egyptian capital.
According to an October 16, 2026, report by The Kansas City Star, Murray described the trip as an opportunity to connect with her cultural background.
She also shared lighthearted comments about planning her own wedding after attending such an elaborate ceremony.
The experience attracted attention from other Kansas City Chiefs players’ partners, who congratulated the couple and reacted to their photographs.
Matt Araiza’s Children
As of now, Matt Araiza has no publicly confirmed children.
The Kansas City Chiefs punter has not made a verified public announcement confirming the birth of a son or daughter.
Reliable reporting about his relationship with Layla Murray has primarily focused on their engagement, wedding plans and shared experiences.
There is also no verified information establishing that the couple have children together.
Although they are planning their marriage, they have not publicly confirmed their intentions concerning parenthood.
The absence of publicly available information does not establish the details of their private family plans.
Matt Araiza’s Parents
Matt Araiza was born to Rico Araiza and Kerry Araiza.
Both parents are identified in his official San Diego State University football biography and the Kansas City Chiefs’ media guide.
They raised him in San Diego, California, where he developed an interest in soccer before becoming a successful football kicker and punter.
His father has Mexican roots, while his mother worked in education.
Both parents played significant roles in supporting his athletic development and college football career.
Rico Araiza – Father
Rico Araiza is Matt Araiza’s father.
According to reporting by GQ Mexico and other publications, Rico was born in Mexico and has family connections to Mexicali, Baja California.
His background contributes to Matt’s Mexican-American heritage.
Rico grew up with an interest in sports, particularly soccer, and encouraged his son’s athletic development.
Matt initially hoped to pursue soccer professionally before concentrating more heavily on American football.
As Matt developed into a high school kicker, his father regularly helped him practice and improve his technique.
In a 2021 interview with East Village Times, Kerry Araiza recalled an example of the family’s commitment to Matt’s development.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Matt struggled to find suitable exercise equipment because gyms were closed and weights were difficult to purchase.
To solve the problem, Matt and Rico purchased concrete and lumber and built their own training equipment.
The homemade equipment allowed Matt to continue strength training while preparing for the college football season.
The story demonstrated how Rico supported his son’s athletic ambitions through practical involvement.
He continued supporting Matt throughout his time at San Diego State and during his pursuit of an NFL career.
Rico Araiza’s Influence on His Son’s Athletic Career
Rico’s involvement in sports helped establish an athletic environment during Matt’s childhood.
Matt participated in soccer from an early age and eventually developed a strong kicking ability.
Those skills provided a foundation for his transition to football.
Although soccer and American football require different techniques, Matt’s ability to generate kicking power became one of his greatest strengths.
His father and older brother encouraged him to develop that ability.
Rico also supported the decision to attend San Diego State University, allowing Matt to continue his athletic career near the family’s home.
Kerry Araiza – Mother
Kerry Araiza is Matt Araiza’s mother and a former school district educator in the San Diego area.
Her professional background in education was an important influence on the family’s values.
In a 2021 interview with Pro Football Network, Matt explained that his mother worked in the school district where he grew up.
He also said that her connections within the community helped create a strong local support network during his college football career.
Because Matt attended San Diego State University, friends, former teachers and other local supporters were able to follow his achievements closely.
He described the experience of representing his hometown university as particularly meaningful.
Kerry also encouraged her son to prioritize education alongside athletics.
Matt studied interdisciplinary studies at San Diego State while developing into a nationally recognized college football player.
Kerry Araiza’s Reaction to Matt’s College Football Success
In December 2021, Matt Araiza received the Ray Guy Award, recognizing the most outstanding punter in college football.
The award represented one of the biggest achievements of his university career.
Following the announcement, Kerry spoke with East Village Times about her family’s reaction.
She expressed pride in her son’s accomplishments and the dedication he had shown throughout the season.
Kerry also described the family as excited about his recognition, emphasizing that achieving personal goals was particularly meaningful for Matt.
Her comments demonstrated the importance of family support during his development.
Matt Araiza’s Siblings
Matt Araiza has at least one publicly documented sibling, an older brother.
His brother played an important role in helping Matt discover his potential as a football kicker.
Although the brother’s existence is confirmed through Matt’s own interview, his full name has not been reliably established in major sports publications.
Matt Araiza’s Older Brother
Matt Araiza’s older brother helped introduce him to the possibility of playing professional football.
In an October 2021 article published by The Ringer, Araiza recalled an experience from his childhood involving his brother.
When Matt was younger, his older brother took him to a local football field with several footballs.
Matt began kicking the footballs, demonstrating an unusually strong leg.
After watching only a few kicks, his brother told their father that Matt could eventually play in the NFL.
At the time, however, Matt was more interested in becoming a professional soccer player.
He initially imagined pursuing a soccer career in Europe rather than playing American football.
Nevertheless, the experience helped demonstrate his natural kicking talent.
As Matt grew older, he began using his abilities in organized football and eventually developed into one of the nation’s leading punters.
His brother’s early prediction became reality when the Buffalo Bills selected Matt in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Although his brother’s role in that experience is well documented, reliable sources do not establish his full name, current occupation or other private details.
Does Matt Araiza Have a Sister?
As of now, there is no reliable public information confirming that Matt Araiza has a sister.
His official university biography identifies his parents but does not provide a complete list of siblings.
The Ringer confirms that Matt has an older brother, but does not identify any sisters.
Therefore, his older brother is the only sibling independently documented in the sources reviewed.
Matt Araiza’s Mexican-American Family Background
Matt Araiza was born in San Diego, California, and has Mexican ancestry through his father, Rico.
According to GQ Mexico, Rico was born in Mexico before establishing his family life in the United States.
Other reporting has connected the paternal side of the family to Mexicali, Baja California.
Matt’s Mexican heritage has attracted attention from Mexican and American sports publications throughout his career.
He has been recognized among NFL players with family connections to Mexico.
Although he grew up primarily in the United States, his paternal background remains an important publicly documented part of his family history.
Matt Araiza’s Childhood and High School Career
Matthew Ryan Araiza was born on May 16, 2000, in San Diego, California.
He attended Rancho Bernardo High School, where he became an accomplished multi-sport athlete.
During childhood, Matt initially focused on soccer and hoped to pursue the sport professionally.
However, his kicking ability eventually attracted the attention of American football coaches.
He began competing as a placekicker and punter during high school.
Across three seasons, Araiza converted 37 of 48 field-goal attempts and recorded a career-long field goal of 53 yards.
He also averaged 41.7 yards per punt, with a career-long punt of 71 yards.
His 37 career field goals established a San Diego Section record at the time.
Araiza earned three All-CIF San Diego Section Kicker of the Year awards and two Palomar League Kicker of the Year honors.
He also participated in track and field, setting school freshman records in the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles.
His performances helped him earn a scholarship to San Diego State University.
Matt Araiza’s College Football Career
Matt Araiza enrolled at San Diego State University in 2018.
He redshirted during his first season while learning from experienced college kicker John Baron II.
In 2019, Araiza became San Diego State’s primary placekicker, converting 22 of 26 field-goal attempts.
His performances established a school single-season record for successful field goals.
He continued contributing as a kicker during the 2020 season before taking on a larger punting role in 2021.
During the 2021 season, Araiza became nationally recognized for his exceptional punting distance.
He regularly produced punts exceeding 60 and 70 yards, with some traveling more than 80 yards.
His powerful kicking ability earned him the nickname “Punt God.”
He finished the season with one of the most productive punting campaigns in NCAA history.
In December 2021, he won the Ray Guy Award as the nation’s outstanding college punter.
The achievement brought national attention to San Diego State and positioned him as a promising NFL prospect.
Matt Araiza’s Journey to the Kansas City Chiefs
The Buffalo Bills selected Matt Araiza in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 180th overall pick.
However, his professional career was interrupted when Buffalo released him before the regular season following allegations in a civil lawsuit.
A subsequent criminal investigation did not result in charges, and the related civil claims involving Araiza were later withdrawn.
After spending the 2023 NFL season out of the league, Araiza received another professional opportunity.
On February 22, 2024, the Kansas City Chiefs announced that they had signed him.
He became the team’s starting punter and appeared in all 17 regular-season games during the 2024 season.
Across those games, he recorded 62 punts for 3,027 yards, averaging 48.8 yards per punt.
His longest punt traveled 72 yards.
In 2025, Araiza again appeared in all 17 games, recording 56 punts for 2,664 yards.
He placed 25 punts inside opponents’ 20-yard line.
In April 2026, Kansas City agreed to bring Araiza back for another season.
As of now, he continues playing for the Chiefs, wearing jersey number 14.
How Matt Araiza’s Family Supported His Football Career
Family support has been an important part of Matt Araiza’s journey from high school football to the NFL.
His father helped him practice and prepare physically, including building homemade exercise equipment when gyms were unavailable.
His mother supported his education and encouraged his athletic ambitions while working in the local school district.
His older brother was among the first people to recognize his potential as a professional football kicker.
When Araiza signed with Kansas City in February 2024, he publicly thanked his family and friends for supporting him during the preceding years.
His relationship with Layla Murray has also become an important part of his personal life.
Murray has publicly celebrated his football achievements, and their March 2026 engagement marked another significant milestone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matt Araiza’s Family
Who is Matt Araiza’s girlfriend?
Matt Araiza is engaged to Layla Murray, an American registered nurse and social media content creator. The couple announced their engagement on March 15, 2026.
Is Matt Araiza married?
As of now, Matt Araiza is not publicly confirmed to be married. He is engaged to Layla Murray, and the couple have discussed plans for a wedding in 2028.
Who is Layla Murray?
Layla Murray is Matt Araiza’s fiancée. She is a registered nurse and digital content creator who met Araiza at San Diego State University.
When did Matt Araiza get engaged?
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray announced their engagement on March 15, 2026.
When is Matt Araiza getting married?
Matt Araiza and Layla Murray have discussed plans to marry in 2028. Their exact wedding date has not been publicly confirmed.
Does Matt Araiza have children?
As of now, Matt Araiza has no publicly confirmed children. He has not announced the birth of a son or daughter.
Who is Matt Araiza’s father?
His father is Rico Araiza, who was born in Mexico and has family connections to Mexicali, Baja California. He supported Matt’s early athletic development.
Who is Matt Araiza’s mother?
His mother is Kerry Araiza, an educator who worked in the San Diego-area school district where Matt grew up.
How many siblings does Matt Araiza have?
Matt Araiza has at least one publicly confirmed sibling, an older brother who helped introduce him to football kicking. A complete list of siblings has not been independently established.
What is Matt Araiza’s brother’s name?
His older brother’s full name has not been reliably documented in major public reporting.
Does Matt Araiza have a sister?
There is no reliable public information confirming whether Matt Araiza has a sister.
Is Matt Araiza Mexican?
Matt Araiza is American-born and has Mexican family roots through his father, Rico Araiza, who was born in Mexico.
What is Matt Araiza’s full name?
His full name is Matthew Ryan Araiza.
When was Matt Araiza born?
Matt Araiza was born on May 16, 2000.
Where did Matt Araiza play college football?
He played college football at San Diego State University, where he won the 2021 Ray Guy Award.
What NFL team does Matt Araiza play for?
As of now, Matt Araiza is the Kansas City Chiefs’ punter. He joined the team in February 2024.
Mariah Miranda is a dedicated sports journalist specializing in comprehensive NFL coverage, playbook strategy, and team analytics. From offseason Draft planning and free-agency moves to weekly matchup breakdowns and playoff pushes, she delivers clear, data-driven analysis of every division in the league. Driven by a deep understanding of football tactics and locker-room dynamics, Mariah brings fans closer to the gridiron with sharp commentary and player updates.
