Citing philosophical differences with the new regime, Maragos transferred to Racine's Horlick High School, which featured a pass-happy spread offense and emerging quarterback talent Justin Kammler.

The rivalry game quickly became a lopsided affair, as Maragos dominated his former team with nine catches, 115 yards receiving, and a touchdown en route to a 29–6 victory.

During this time, Machado called Maragos "one of the best [football players] to play here" and "a gentleman, [and] a good student, [who] comes from a strong family.

Maragos made a statement with his talent, being named Horlick Player of the Year and first-team All-Racine County, All-Southeast Conference, and All-Region.

[3] As he weighed his collegiate options, Maragos eventually chose to attend Western Michigan, a school already home to future NFL Pro Bowl receiver Greg Jennings.

He became somewhat of a mentor to Maragos, teaching him the intricacies of excelling as a collegiate wide receiver and giving him rides to church on Sundays.

Maragos had six passes defensed in his 2009 senior season, including one that helped end a comeback attempt by Northern Illinois and secure a 28-20 Badger victory.

The program achieved the highest ratings for a Week Two preseason game in seven years, as it featured the heavily publicized return of Brett Favre for a 20th and final NFL season.

[6] Despite a training camp performance that garnered favorable reviews from local beat reporters, Maragos was released by the 49ers on September 3.

The rare timing of the release gained widespread attention when ESPN reporter Adam Schefter tweeted about the oddity.

Maragos was signed to the practice squad and able to remain with the team in London, instead of being forced to fly back home immediately.

[7] He again joined the San Francisco active roster on November 30, and made his NFL playing debut at Lambeau Field on December 5, facing the team from his home state, the Green Bay Packers.

Seattle was rebuilding its roster, and head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider were impressed with Maragos's apparent work ethic and character.

In 2012, the Seahawks became a legitimate Super Bowl contender, going 11-5 and winning a road playoff game against the Washington Redskins.

[17] In February 2023, Maragos was awarded $43.5 million in damages after he filed a negligence suit against doctors responsible for treating his 2017 injury.