Matthew Edwards is an American professional soccer player who represents Atlanta United in Major League Soccer (MLS). The talented defender built his reputation through hard work, versatility, and consistent improvement. Although he began in the club’s academy, he also strengthened his game during a successful college career before returning to Atlanta.

Today, Edwards ranks among the club’s promising Homegrown talents. Moreover, he continues to earn valuable first-team minutes while developing into a dependable defender. His ability to play several defensive positions makes him an important asset for Atlanta United.

Matthew Edwards Quick Facts

Early Life and Background

Matthew Edwards was born on February 17, 2003, in Apex, North Carolina. He developed a passion for soccer at an early age. His parents encouraged his athletic growth throughout childhood.

He spent his early playing years with local youth programs before joining International Development Futbol. His performances quickly attracted attention from larger academies.

Eventually, Atlanta United recruited him into its academy system in 2019. That opportunity marked an important turning point in his football journey.

Education and College Career

Instead of turning professional immediately, Edwards chose college soccer.

He enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During his time with the North Carolina Tar Heels, he gained valuable experience against elite collegiate competition.

Unfortunately, he suffered a significant knee injury early in his college career. However, he remained determined. After recovering, he returned stronger and became one of the team’s dependable defenders.

Between 2021 and 2023, Edwards appeared in 41 matches for North Carolina. Although he did not score, he impressed coaches with his defensive awareness and leadership.

Youth Career with Atlanta United

Before college, Edwards trained in Atlanta United’s Academy.

The academy has produced several talented Homegrown players. Therefore, it provided an ideal environment for his development.

His technical ability, tactical understanding, and discipline helped him stand out among young defenders.

Although he temporarily left for college, Atlanta United continued to monitor his progress closely.

Professional Career

Atlanta United 2

Edwards made his professional debut for Atlanta United 2 during the 2020 USL Championship season.

The appearance gave him valuable professional experience before college.

After finishing his collegiate career, he returned to Atlanta United 2 for the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season.

He quickly established himself as a leader.

In fact, he captained the team while producing consistent defensive performances.

He finished the campaign with 16 appearances and one assist.

Signing a Homegrown Contract

Atlanta United rewarded Edwards with a Homegrown contract in June 2024.

The agreement reflected the club’s confidence in his long-term potential.

Signing as a Homegrown player represented an important milestone because it completed his journey from academy prospect to first-team professional.

The contract also included additional club options beyond the initial term.

Atlanta United First-Team Career

Edwards earned his first-team opportunities during the 2024 season.

He made his senior debut in the U.S. Open Cup, where he immediately impressed by registering an assist.

Soon afterward, he began earning MLS appearances.

Throughout the 2025 season, he featured regularly as injuries created opportunities across Atlanta’s defensive line.

Rather than specializing in one position, Edwards demonstrated remarkable versatility.

He played as:

• Left back
• Right back
• Center back

That flexibility increased his importance to Atlanta United.

By the 2026 season, Edwards remained an active member of the first-team squad. He continued contributing valuable minutes while recording his first MLS assist of the campaign.

Playing Style

Matthew Edwards plays with maturity beyond his age.

His biggest strengths include:

• Excellent positioning
• Strong tackling
• Defensive awareness
• Passing accuracy
• Versatility
• Work ethic

Unlike many young defenders, Edwards remains calm under pressure.

Additionally, coaches trust him because he adapts quickly to different tactical systems.

His ability to cover multiple defensive roles also makes him valuable throughout a long MLS season.

Career Statistics

As of the 2026 MLS season, Edwards has accumulated professional appearances across several competitions.

His career includes:

• Atlanta United
• Atlanta United 2
• U.S. Open Cup
• MLS NEXT Pro
• Major League Soccer

Although goals remain rare for defenders, Edwards contributes through defensive consistency, interceptions, recoveries, and intelligent positioning.

International Career

Matthew Edwards has represented the United States at the youth development level through academy pathways.

However, he has not yet earned a senior national team appearance.

Considering his steady progress, future opportunities remain possible.

Personal Life

Edwards keeps most of his private life away from public attention.

He rarely discusses family matters in interviews.

Instead, he prefers focusing on football and personal development.

His teammates often describe him as hardworking, humble, and coachable.

Relationship Status

There are no confirmed public reports regarding Matthew Edwards’ girlfriend or marital status.

He appears focused on developing his professional soccer career.

Matthew Edwards Salary and Contract

Atlanta United signed Edwards as a Homegrown player in 2024.

His contract currently runs through 2026, with additional club option years available.

Matthew Edwards Net Worth

Matthew Edwards has not publicly disclosed his finances.

However, estimates place his net worth between $300,000 and $700,000.

His primary income comes from:

• MLS salary
• Performance bonuses
• Sponsorship opportunities
• Professional contracts

Since he remains early in his career, his earnings will likely grow significantly.

Achievements

Some notable milestones include:

• Atlanta United Academy graduate
• University of North Carolina defender
• Atlanta United 2 captain
• Atlanta United Homegrown signing
• MLS first-team player
• Professional debut in the USL Championship
• MLS and U.S. Open Cup appearances

Strengths That Make Him Valuable

Several qualities separate Edwards from many young defenders.

These include:

• Versatility across the back line
• Strong football intelligence
• Leadership qualities
• Professional attitude
• Reliable passing ability
• Consistent improvement

Because of these strengths, Atlanta United continues investing in his development.

Future Prospects

Matthew Edwards still has significant room for growth.

His consistent improvement suggests an encouraging future.

If he continues earning regular MLS minutes, he could establish himself as a full-time starter.

Furthermore, strong performances may eventually attract attention from European clubs.

His versatility also increases his chances of remaining valuable throughout his professional career.

Interesting Facts About Matthew Edwards

• He was born in Apex, North Carolina.
• He joined Atlanta United’s academy in 2019.
• He played college soccer at North Carolina.
• He returned to Atlanta after college.
• He signed a Homegrown contract in 2024.
• He has played left back, right back, and center back.
• He captained Atlanta United 2.
• He continues developing as an MLS defender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Matthew Edwards?

Matthew Edwards is an American professional soccer player who plays defender for Atlanta United in Major League Soccer.

How old is Matthew Edwards?

He is 23 years old as of 2026.

Where was Matthew Edwards born?

He was born in Apex, North Carolina, United States.

What position does Matthew Edwards play?

He primarily plays as a defender. He can also play left back, right back, or center back.

Which college did Matthew Edwards attend?

He played for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels.

When did Matthew Edwards join Atlanta United?

He joined the academy in 2019 and signed a Homegrown contract in 2024.

What is Matthew Edwards’ height?

He stands 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) tall.

Is Matthew Edwards married?

There is no public information confirming that he is married.

Conclusion

Matthew Edwards has built an impressive soccer journey through persistence, discipline, and continuous improvement. His path from the Atlanta United Academy to college soccer and back to MLS demonstrates his determination. Although he remains early in his professional career, he already offers versatility and reliability in defense. If he maintains his current trajectory, Matthew Edwards could become one of Atlanta United’s long-term defensive leaders and a future candidate for higher levels of competition.