Tyrann Mathieu

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana,{{Cite web |last=DeShazier |first=John |date=May 4, 2022 |title=New Orleans native Tyrann Mathieu fulfills dream of signing with Saints |url=https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/new-orleans-native-tyrann-mathieu-fulfills-dream-of-signing-with-saints |access-date=July 7, 2023 |website=New Orleans Saints |language=en-US}} Mathieu attended St. Augustine High School, where he played for the St. Augustine Purple Knights high school football team.{{Cite web |last=Palermo |first=Jeff |date=May 4, 2022 |title=St. Augustine High School celebrates the return of Tyrann Mathieu to New Orleans |url=https://louisianaradionetwork.com/2022/05/04/st-augustine-high-school-celebrates-the-return-of-tyrann-mathieu-to-new-orleans/ |access-date=July 7, 2023 |website=Louisiana Radio Network |language=en}} He recorded 32 tackles, five interceptions, one sack and one fumble recovery as a senior.

While living in New Orleans' Central City, Mathieu was raised by his grandparents. His biological mother was absent the majority of the time and his biological father, Darrin Hayes, has been incarcerated for murder most of Mathieu's life. After his grandfather died in 1997, Mathieu was adopted by his uncle, Tyrone Mathieu, and aunt, Sheila Mathieu.{{Cite web |last=Schlabach |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Schlabach |date=January 6, 2012 |title=Tyrann Mathieu not running from past |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/bowls11/story/_/id/7434011/lsu-tigers-cb-tyrann-mathieu-helped-shaped-college-football |access-date=March 31, 2019 |website=ESPN.com}}

Mathieu also ran track and field for St. Augustine's track team and was a member of the relay team. He was one of the state's top performers in the long jump. He had personal-best leaps of 1.93 meters in the high jump and 7.29 meters in the long jump.

Considered a four-star recruit by Rivals.com,{{Cite web |last=Pszonak |first=Mark |date=August 19, 2015 |title=Rivals Rewind: Tyrann Mathieu |url=https://n.rivals.com/news/rivals-rewind-tyrann-mathieu |access-date=November 17, 2018 |website=Rivals.com}} Mathieu was listed as the No. 13 cornerback in the nation in 2010.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu, 2010 Cornerback |url=https://n.rivals.com/content/prospects/2010/tyrann-mathieu-11178 |access-date=November 17, 2018 |website=Rivals.com}}

File:Tyrann Mathieu 2011.jpg]]

Mathieu accepted an athletic scholarship to attend Louisiana State University, where he played for coach Les Miles's LSU Tigers football team from 2010 to 2011.{{Cite web |last=Reed |first=Chris |date=May 2, 2022 |title=Tyrann Mathieu Credits Those Who Saved Life and Football Career |url=https://1079ishot.com/tyrann-mathieu-les-miles/ |access-date=July 7, 2023 |website=HOT 107.9 |language=en}}

As a true freshman in 2010, Mathieu played in all 13 games with one start. He finished the season with 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions.{{Cite web |date=July 8, 2019 |title=Tyrann Mathieu |url=https://lsusports.net/roster/tyrann-mathieu/ |access-date=July 7, 2023 |website=LSUSports.net |language=en-US}} He was the Most Outstanding Defensive Player of the 2011 Cotton Bowl Classic against Texas A&M after he recorded seven tackles, one tackle for loss, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, one interception, one sack, and one pass breakup.{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2011 |title=Felix McKnight Trophy Winner — Defensive Back Tyrann Mathieu |url=http://www.attcottonbowl.com/news/news-releases/2011/01/felix-mcknight-trophy-winner-defensive-back-tyrann-mathieu/ |access-date=August 12, 2012 |website=AT&T Cotton Bowl}}

At the end of the 2011 regular season, Mathieu had 77 total tackles (60 solo and 17 assists), 1.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries (two returned for a touchdown), and two interceptions.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu Stats |url=https://espn.go.com/college-football/player/stats/_/id/504168/tyrann-mathieu%20Tyrann%20Mathieu%20Stats |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}} On special teams, Mathieu had 26 punt returns for 420 yards, with two returned for a touchdown.[http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/sortableStats?div=CFB&table=puntReturns&stat=puntretAVG&dir=descending&low=1 Individual Punt Returning Leaders], Fox Sports, December 4, 2011. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111020040149/http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/sortableStats?div=CFB&table=puntReturns&stat=puntretAVG&dir=descending&low=1 |date=October 20, 2011 }} On October 19, 2011, Mathieu was suspended for one game following a violation of LSU's drug policy.{{Cite web |last=Martel |first=Brett |date=October 19, 2011 |title=Tyrann Mathieu Suspended: LSU Suspends Star Cornerback For Auburn Game |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/19/tyrann-mathieu-suspended-lsu-auburn_n_1020227.html |access-date=August 12, 2012 |website=Huffington Post}} Mathieu was named the most valuable player of the 2011 SEC Championship Game. Mathieu earned the nickname "the Honey Badger" for his tenacious ability to play extremely tough football against much larger opponents as well as his dyed patch of blond hair on the top of his head in his college days which resembled the blond patch of hair on the back of a honey badger.{{Cite web |last=Low |first=Chris |date=October 15, 2011 |title=Tyrann Mathieu talks a good game |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/30576/mathieu-talks-a-good-game |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}}{{Cite web |last=Heyen |first=Billy |date=August 12, 2021 |title=Tyrann Mathieu's playmaking, turnover-forcing ways live up to 'Honey Badger' nickname |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/tyrann-mathieu-honey-badger-nickname/113ix38crbqz21354p9a27uqy9 |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Sporting News |language=en-us}} This led to him being a Heisman Trophy finalist, eventually finishing fifth.{{Cite web |title=2011 Heisman Trophy Voting |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2011.html |access-date=July 7, 2023 |website=Sports Reference}} On December 8, 2011, Mathieu was awarded the Chuck Bednarik Award, given to the year's best defensive player in college football. This marked the second straight year an LSU defensive player won the nation's top defensive honor following Patrick Peterson in 2010.{{Cite web |title=Chuck Bednarik Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/bednarik.html |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

On August 10, 2012, LSU head coach Les Miles announced that Mathieu would be dismissed from the football team due to a violation of team rules. News outlets reported that the dismissal was a result of repeated drug test failures, although Miles did not confirm those reports.{{Cite web |last=Kleinpeter |first=Jim |date=August 10, 2012 |title=LSU's Tyrann Mathieu dismissed for failed drug test, source says |url=http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2012/08/lsu_all_american_tyrann_honey.html |access-date=August 12, 2012 |website=The Times-Picayune}} Mathieu had formerly expressed an interest in returning to the program for the 2013 season.{{Cite web |last=Helman |first=David |date=August 14, 2012 |title=Les Miles discusses Tyrann Mathieu |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/8268876/coach-les-miles-speaks-tyrann-mathieu-interest-returning-lsu-tigers |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}} On August 17, 2012, Mathieu withdrew from LSU and entered a drug rehabilitation program in Houston, Texas.{{Cite web |last=Laney |first=Gary |date=August 17, 2012 |title=Tyrann Mathieu in rehab center |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/8276879/tyrann-mathieu-checks-rehab-center-puts-football-hold-father-says |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Mathieu's withdrawal was expected to last for the entire 2012–2013 academic year. However, on September 4, 2012, Mathieu ended his withdrawal and enrolled for fall semester classes. On October 25, 2012, Mathieu and three other LSU former players were arrested on possession of marijuana.{{Cite web |last=Schad |first=Joe |date=September 4, 2012 |title=Tyrann Mathieu enrolls at LSU |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/8337215/lsu-tigers-les-miles-mum-enrolled-tyrann-mathieu-future |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}

On November 29, 2012, it was announced that Mathieu would enter the NFL draft.{{Cite web |last=Schad |first=Joe |date=November 29, 2012 |title=Tyrann Mathieu to enter NFL draft|agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2013/story/_/id/8689828/honey-badger-tyrann-mathieu-enter-nfl-draft |access-date=January 6, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}} Mathieu participated at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine on February 26, 2013. He ran a 4.50 40-yard dash, had 4 reps of 225 pounds, a 34-inch vertical, and a 117-inch broad jump.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/tyrann-mathieu/32004d41-5419-5206-42a6-e6a01bfff75c |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=NFL.com}} He also later participated at his pro day on March 27, 2013.{{Cite web |last=Copeland |first=Kareem |date=November 29, 2012 |title=Tyrann Mathieu, 'Honey Badger,' eyes 2013 NFL Draft |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-honey-badger-eyes-2013-nfl-draft-0ap1000000102780 |access-date=November 29, 2012 |website=National Football League}}

Prior to the 2012 season, Mathieu was ranked as the third best cornerback prospect in the upcoming 2013 NFL draft by NFL analyst Chad Reuter. On November 29, 2012, Mathieu stated his intentions to enter the draft. Mathieu attended the NFL Combine and completed all of the combine and positional drills. On March 28, 2013, Mathieu attended LSU's pro day, but chose to stand on his combine numbers and only performed positional drills.{{Cite web |last=Laney, Gary |date=March 28, 2013 |title=Tyrann Mathieu LSU Pro Day |url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2013/story/_/id/9105794/tyrann-mathieu-goes-pro-day-lsu |access-date=July 8, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}} He was projected to be a second or third round pick by the majority of NFL draft experts and scouts. At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Mathieu was ranked as the tenth best cornerback prospect in the draft by DraftScout.com.{{Cite web |title=*Tyrann Mathieu, DS #10 CB, LSU |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=110169&DraftYear=2013 |access-date=July 8, 2018 |website=DraftScout.com}}

{{external media

| video1 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap2000000154034/Tyrann-Mathieu-2013-Combine-Workout Tyrann Mathieu's NFL Combine Workout]

| video2 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap2000000145251/Tyrann-Mathieu-s-speedy-40-yard-dash Tyrann Mathieu's 40-yard dash]

| video3 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap2000000145269/Mathieu-I-m-an-impact-player Mathieu's NFL Combine Interview]

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{{NFL predraft

| height ft = 5

| height in = 8 3/4

| weight = 186

| dash = 4.50

| ten split = 1.56

| twenty split = 2.61

| shuttle = 4.14

| cone drill = 6.87

| vertical = 34

| broad ft = 9

| broad in = 9

| bench = 4

| wonderlic =

| arm span = 31 1/8

| hand span = 9 3/8

| note = All values from NFL Combine

}}

The Arizona Cardinals selected Mathieu in the third round (69th overall) of the 2013 NFL draft.{{Cite web |title=2013 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2013/draft.htm |access-date=May 14, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Mathieu was the sixth safety drafted in 2013.{{Cite news |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=April 26, 2013 |title=Tyrann Mathieu drafted by Arizona Cardinals at No. 69 |language=en |work=NFL.com |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-drafted-by-arizona-cardinals-at-no-69-0ap1000000164361 |access-date=March 20, 2018}} On April 26, 2013, it was reported that Cardinals' head coach Bruce Arians stated that Mathieu would be playing free safety although it was widely expected he would play slot cornerback coming out of college.{{Cite web |last=Florio |first=Mike |date=April 26, 2013 |title=Mathieu will play free safety for Cardinals |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/04/26/mathieu-will-play-free-safety-for-cardinals/ |access-date=May 15, 2013 |website=Pro Football Talk |publisher=NBC Sports}}

{{external media

| video1 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap2000000164526/Cardinals-draft-Tyrann-Mathieu-No-69 Cardinals draft Tyrann Mathieu 69th overall]

| video2 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap2000000160841/2013-Draft-profile-CB-Tyrann-Mathieu-LSU NFL Draft Profile: Tyrann Mathieu]

}}

On May 10, 2013, Mathieu stated during an interview while watching former teammates practice at the Senior Bowl that he wanted to remove himself from any association with his "Honey Badger" nickname. (see "Personal life"){{Cite web |last=Wolken |first=Dan |date=May 10, 2013 |title=Former LSU star Tyrann Mathieu says goodbye to the 'Honey Badger' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2013/01/21/lousiana-state-lsu-tyrann-mathieu-senior-bowl-nfl/1852971/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US}}

{{See also|2013 Arizona Cardinals season}}

On May 23, 2013, the Arizona Cardinals signed Mathieu to a four–year, $3.05 million contract that included $817,187 guaranteed and an initial signing bonus of $265,000.{{Cite web |last=Garafolo |first=Mike |date=May 23, 2013 |title=Tyrann Mathieu gets a little extra honey in contract |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2013/05/23/tyrann-mathieu-arizona-cardinals/2356079/ |access-date=March 20, 2018 |website=USA TODAY |language=en}}{{cite web| title=Spotrac.com: Tyrann Mathieu contract| url=https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/12350/tyrann-mathieu |access-date=February 21, 2025| website=Spotrac.com}}

File:Tyrann Mathieu.jpg

Throughout training camp, Mathieu competed to be the first-team nickelback and starting free safety. He competed to be a starting free safety against Yeremiah Bell and Rashad Johnson.{{Cite web |last=Wesseling, Chris |date=July 19, 2013 |title=Tyrann Mathieu can make quick impact for Cardinals |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-can-make-quick-impact-for-cardinals-0ap1000000213418 |access-date=July 8, 2018 |website=NFL.com}} Head coach Bruce Arians named Mathieu the backup free safety to begin the regular season, behind starting free safety Rashad Johnson and strong safety Jeremiah Bell. Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles also named him the first-team nickelback.{{Cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals Depth Chart: 09/05/2013 |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/tyrannmathieu/2540180/careerstats |access-date=July 8, 2018 |website=Ourlads.com}}

On September 8, 2013, Mathieu made his professional regular season debut in the Arizona Cardinals' season-opener at the St. Louis Rams and made seven solo tackles and made his first career forced fumble in their 27–24 loss. He made his first career regular-season tackle and forced a fumble on St Louis Rams' tight end Jared Cook before Cook crossed into the endzone for a touchdown and it was recovered by Cardinals' linebacker Karlos Dansby for a touchback in the first quarter.{{Cite news |last=Van Bibber |first=Ryan |date=September 8, 2013 |title=The Honey Badger has a message for Jared Cook |work=SBNation.com |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2013/9/8/4708334/tyrann-mathieu-jared-cook-touchdown-fumble |access-date=March 20, 2018}} The following week, he earned his first career start as a nickelback and made six solo tackles and a pass deflection during a 25–21 victory against the Detroit Lions in Week 2. On September 22, 2013, Mathieu recorded ten combined tackles (nine solo), deflected a pass, and made his first career interception off a pass thrown by quarterback Drew Brees, that was initially intended for wide receiver Lance Moore, in the third quarter of a 31–7 loss at the New Orleans Saints.{{Cite web |last=Wilkening |first=Mike |date=September 22, 2013 |title=Tyrann Mathieu hauls in first regular season interception |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/09/22/tyrann-mathieu-hauls-in-first-regular-season-interception/ |access-date=September 26, 2013 |website=NBC |publisher=NBCsports}} In Week 4, Mathieu earned his first career start at free safety and remained the starter for the rest of the season after Rashad Johnson sustained an injury to his finger while covering a punt the previous week.{{Cite web |last=Patra, Kevin |date=September 23, 2013 |title=Rashad Johnson lost tip of finger in Cardinals game |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/rashad-johnson-lost-tip-of-finger-in-cardinals-game-0ap2000000249502 |access-date=July 8, 2018 |website=NFL.com}} He finished the Cardinals' 13–10 win at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 4 with six solo tackles. On October 6, 2013, he recorded five solo tackles and made his first career sack on quarterback Cam Newton for a ten-yard loss in the second quarter during the Cardinals' 22–6 win against the Carolina Panthers.{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals - October 6th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310060crd.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On December 8, 2013, Mathieu made one solo tackle and a pass deflection before exiting the Cardinals' 30–10 victory against the St. Louis Rams with a leg injury. It was later determined Mathieu tore his left ACL and LCL while returning a punt during the third quarter.{{Cite web |title=St. Louis Rams at Arizona Cardinals - December 8th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201312080crd.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On December 10, 2013, the Arizona Cardinals placed Mathieu on injured reserve officially ending his rookie season as he was inactive for the last three games (Weeks 15–17).{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=December 9, 2013 |title=Arizona Cardinals' Tyrann Mathieu tears ACL, LCL |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/arizona-cardinals-tyrann-mathieu-tears-acl-lcl-0ap2000000295555 |access-date=April 22, 2016 |website=NFL.com |publisher=NFL Enterprises LLC}} He completed his rookie season in 2013 with 68 combined tackles (65 solo), nine pass deflections, two interceptions, a sack, and a forced fumble in 13 games and 11 starts.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2013/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.{{Cite web |title=2013 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2013.htm |access-date=2024-08-03 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2014 Arizona Cardinals season}}

Mathieu was not able to participate in training camp due to his recovery. He was inactive for the Cardinals' season opener but joined the team in Week 2. Upon his return, head coach Bruce Arians named Mathieu the backup free safety behind Rashad Johnson.{{Cite web |date=September 16, 2014 |title=Tyrann Mathieu returns from injury, and how other LSU players fared in NFL Week 2 games |url=https://www.articles.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2014/09/lsu_players_in_the_nfl_week_2.html |access-date=July 9, 2018 |website=NOLA.com}} On September 21, 2014, Mathieu collected a season-high six combined tackles (five solo) during a 23–14 win against the San Francisco 49ers. On November 2, 2014, Mathieu recorded five combined tackles (four solo), a pass deflection, and made his lone interception of the season off a pass by Brandon Weeden to tight end Jason Witten during a 28–17 win at the Dallas Cowboys.{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=November 2, 2014 |title=Confident Cardinals Batter Cowboys |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/confident-cardinals-batter-cowboys-14143304 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}} In Week 10, Mathieu became the starting free safety and replaced Tony Jefferson in the starting lineup.{{Cite web |last=Fucillo |first=David |date=December 2, 2014 |title=Tyrann Mathieu injury, Chris Long return could shake up the NFC West race |url=https://www.ninersnation.com/2014/12/2/7321833/tyrann-mathieu-injury-chris-long-return-could-shake-up-the-nfc-west |access-date=July 9, 2018 |website=ninersnation.com}} On November 30, 2014, Mathieu made three combined tackles (two solo) in the Cardinals' 29–18 loss against the Atlanta Falcons, but exited in the third quarter after sustaining a thumb injury. He underwent surgery on his thumb and was expected to miss two games (Weeks 13–14).{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=December 2, 2014 |title=Cardinals' Tyrann Mathieu (thumb) to undergo surgery |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/cardinals-tyrann-mathieu-thumb-to-undergo-surgery-0ap3000000437818 |access-date=July 9, 2018 |website=NFL.com}} He finished the season with 39 combined tackles (35 solo), four pass deflections, an interception, and a fumble recovery in 13 games and six starts.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2014/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2015 Arizona Cardinals season}}

Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles accepted the head coaching position with the New York Jets and was replaced by James Bettcher. Throughout training camp, Mathieu competed against Rashad Johnson to be the starting free safety.{{Cite web |last=Biggs |first=Brad |date=September 19, 2015 |title=Bears Scouting Report: Tyrann Mathieu, Cardinals FS |url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-tyrann-mathieu-scouting-report-bears-spt-0920-20150919-story.html |access-date=July 11, 2018 |website=ChicagoTribune.com}} Head coach Bruce Arians officially named him the starting free safety to start the regular season, alongside strong safety Deone Bucannon.

On September 27, 2015, Mathieu had five solo tackles, two pass deflections, and a career-high two interceptions on passes by Colin Kaepernick including his first career touchdown as the Cardinals routed the San Francisco 49ers 47–7. He scored his touchdown in the first quarter after intercepting a pass by Colin Kaepernick to wide receiver Anquan Boldin and returning it 33–yards.{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=September 27, 2015 |title=Against 49ers, The Magic Of Tyrann Mathieu |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/against-49ers-the-magic-of-tyrann-mathieu-15959626 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}} The last time an Arizona Cardinal had two interceptions in a game was Patrick Peterson in Week 10, 2014.{{Cite web |title=Most interceptions by a player in one game, Arizona Cardinals |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=most+interceptions+by+one+player+in+a+game%252c+arizona+cardinals |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=StatMuse |language=en}} On November 15, 2015, he made six combined tackles (five solo), a season-high three pass deflections, and intercepted a pass thrown by Russell Wilson to wide receiver Doug Baldwin during a 39–32 win at the Seattle Seahawks. In Week 12, Mathieu collected a season-high 13 combined tackles (11 solo), broke up two passes, and intercepted a pass by Blaine Gabbert to wide receiver Quinton Patton in the Cardinals' 19–13 win at the San Francisco 49ers.{{Cite news |last=Marotta |first=Vince |date=November 16, 2015 |title=How the West Was Won Week 10: Cardinals build 3-game cushion with win in Seattle |language=en-US |work=Arizona Sports |url=http://arizonasports.com/story/454267/how-the-west-was-won-week-10-cardinals-build-3-game-cushion-with-win-in-seattle/ |access-date=March 20, 2018}}{{Cite news |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=November 29, 2015 |title=Defense Clamps Down Late On 49ers |work=Arizona Cardinals |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/defense-clamps-down-late-on-49ers-16398477 |access-date=March 20, 2018}} On December 20, 2015, Mathieu made five combined tackles (four solo), two pass deflections, and sealed a 40-17 win at the Philadelphia Eagles with a fourth quarter interception on a pass thrown by Sam Bradford to wide receiver Riley Cooper. He unfortunately tore his ACL during the interception and missed the last two games of the season (Weeks 16–17).{{Cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=December 21, 2015 |title=Tyrann Mathieu will miss the season with a torn ACL |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-will-miss-the-season-with-a-torn-acl-0ap3000000606483 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |website=NFL.com}} Mathieu was named to his first Pro bowl after the season and was named by the Associated Press as a first-team All-Pro safety.{{Cite web |last=McManaman |first=Bob |date=December 23, 2015 |title=Cardinals have 7 players named to the Pro Bowl |url=http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2015/12/22/cardinals-have-7-players-named-pro-bowl/77782568/ |access-date=April 22, 2016 |website=azcentral.com |publisher=The Arizona Republic}}{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2016 |title=Cardinals' Peterson, Mathieu named to All-Pro team |url=http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/story/cardinals-patrick-peterson-tyrann-mathieu-named-to-all-pro-team-010816 |access-date=April 22, 2016 |website=Fox Sports Arizona |publisher=Fox Sports Interactive Media, LLC}} He was ranked 28th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2016-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He finished the season with a total of 89 combined tackles (80 solo), 17 pass deflections, five interceptions, one sack, a forced fumble, and one touchdown in 14 games and 14 starts.{{Cite web |title=Pro-Football-Reference: Tyrann Mathieu stats (2015) |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He received the highest overall grade of 91.6 from Pro Football Focus, which was the highest among all teammates on the Arizona Cardinals.{{cite web| title=2016 cheat sheet: Arizona Cardinals| url=https://www.pff.com/news/pro-2016-cheat-sheet-arizona-cardinals |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=PFF.com| author=Jordan Plocher| date=August 20, 2016}}

{{See also|2016 Arizona Cardinals season}}

On August 2, 2016, the Arizona Cardinals signed Mathieu to a five–year, $62.50 million extension that included $40.00 million guaranteed, $21.25 million guaranteed upon signing, and an initial signing bonus of $15.50 million.{{Cite web |last=Wesseling |first=Chris |date=August 2, 2016 |title=Tyrann Mathieu, Cardinals agree to 5-year extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-cardinals-agree-to-5-year-extension-0ap3000000678965 |access-date=December 23, 2016 |website=NFL.com}} He missed training camp as he was still recovering from undergoing surgery to repair his torn ACL. Head coach Bruce Arians named Mathieu as the starting free safety to begin the season and paired him with strong safety D. J. Swearinger.{{cite web| title=The first depth chart, 2016| url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/the-first-depth-chart-2016 |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=AZCardinals.com| date=August 8, 2016| author=Darren Urban}}

File:Tyrann Mathieu by Gage Skidmore.jpg

On September 11, 2016, he started in the Arizona Cardinals home-opener against the New England Patriots and collected a season-high seven solo tackles during a 21–23 loss. On October 17, 2016, Mathieu made six solo tackles, a season-high two pass deflections, and had his only interception on a pass thrown by Geno Smith to wide receiver Charone Peake as the Cardinals routed the New York Jets 28–3.{{Cite news |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=October 17, 2016 |title=No Fun For Bowles Watching Cardinals Defense |work=Arizona Cardinals |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/no-fun-for-bowles-watching-cardinals-defense-17906510 |access-date=March 20, 2018}} In Week 8, Mathieu made one solo tackle before exiting in the second quarter of a 20–30 loss at the Carolina Panthers with a shoulder injury. He was ruled out for three to six weeks.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Michael |date=October 31, 2016 |title=Tyrann Mathieu out 3–6 weeks with shoulder injury |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/10/31/tyrann-mathieu-out-3-6-weeks-with-shoulder-injury/ |access-date=October 31, 2016 |website=NBC Sports}} He was inactive for the next two games (Weeks 10–11). He returned in Week 12, but subsequently missed another two games (Weeks 13–14) after aggravating his shoulder injury.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2016/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On December 23, 2016, the Arizona Cardinals officially placed him on injured reserve and he was inactive for the last two games (Weeks 16–17) of the season.{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 23, 2016 |title=Tyrann Mathieu Placed On IR |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-placed-on-ir-18326069 |access-date=November 6, 2020 |website=AZCardinals.com}} He finished the 2016 NFL season with a total of 35 combined tackles (33 solo), four pass deflections, one interception, one sack, and a forced fumble in ten games and ten starts.{{Cite web |title=Pro-Football-Reference: Tyrann Mathieu stats (2016) |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00.htm |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2017 Arizona Cardinals season}}

He entered training camp slated as the de facto starting free safety. He returned as the starting free safety to begin the season, alongside strong safety Antoine Bethea.{{cite web| title=Arizona Cardinals release first depth chart of 2017| url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2017/7/27/16048168/arizona-cardinals-release-first-depth-chart-of-2017 |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=revengeofthebirds.com| date=July 27, 2017| author=Seth Cox}} On September 17, 2017, Mathieu made three solo tackles, two pass deflections, and intercepted a pass thrown by Jacoby Brissett to wide receiver Kamar Aiken in overtime in a 16–13 victory over the Indianapolis Colts.{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals at Indianapolis Colts - September 17th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201709170clt.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The pick set the Cardinals up to win the game on a Phil Dawson field goal.{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=September 17, 2017 |title=Phil Dawson Finds Redemption |url=https://www.azcardinals.com/news/phil-dawson-finds-redemption-19392585 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}} In Week 4, he collected a season-high 12 solo tackles and made one sack in the Cardinals' 18–15 win against the San Francisco 49ers. On November 26, 2017, he made four solo tackles, a season-high three pass deflections, and intercepted a pass by Blake Bortles to wide receiver Dede Westbrook during a 27–24 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He started all 16 games in 2017 and had a total of 78 combined tackles (70 solo), seven pass deflections, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a sack.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2017/ |access-date=March 17, 2021 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2018 Arizona Cardinals season}}

On March 14, 2018, Mathieu was released by the Cardinals after refusing to take a pay cut.{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=March 14, 2018 |title=Cardinals release veteran safety Tyrann Mathieu |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/cardinals-release-veteran-safety-tyrann-mathieu-0ap3000000921201 |access-date=February 7, 2023 |website=NFL.com|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207195627/https://www.nfl.com/news/cardinals-release-veteran-safety-tyrann-mathieu-0ap3000000921201|archivedate=February 7, 2023|url-status=live}}

{{See also|2018 Houston Texans season}}

On March 17, 2018, the Houston Texans signed Mathieu to a one–year, $7.00 million contract that includes $6.50 million guaranteed upon signing and an initial signing bonus of $4.50 million.{{Cite web |last=Florio |first=Mike |date=March 16, 2018 |title=Tyrann Mathieu heads to Houston on a one-year deal |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/03/16/tyrann-mathieu-heads-to-houston-on-a-one-year-deal/?sf184807598=1 |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=ProFootballTalk}} He entered training camp as the de facto starting free safety, replacing Marcus Gilchrist who departed in free agency. Head coach Bill O'Brien named Mathieu and Kareem Jackson the starting safeties to begin the regular season.{{cite web|title=2018 Houston Texans starters, 53-man roster, schedule prediction| url=https://www.espn.com/blog/houston-texans/post/_/id/22514/houston-texans-53-man-roster-projection-final-cuts-2018 |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=ESPN.com| author=Sarah Barshop| date=September 1, 2018}}

On September 9, 2018, Mathieu started in the Houston Texans' season-opener at the New England Patriots and made five combined tackles (three solo), one pass deflection, recovered a fumble, and intercepted a pass thrown by Tom Brady to running back James White during a 20–27 loss.{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Aaron |date=September 9, 2018 |title=Texans safety Tyrann Mathieu off to fast start |url=https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/Texans-safety-Tyrann-Mathieu-off-to-fast-start-13216534.php |access-date=September 11, 2018 |website=Houston Chronicle}} In Week 7, he recorded five combined tackles (four solo), a pass deflection, had his first sack of the season, and intercepted a pass thrown by Cody Kessler to T. J. Yeldon during a 20–7 win at the Jacksonville Jaguars. In Week 11, he collected a season-high nine combined tackles (eight solo) and made one sack during a 23–21 win at the Washington Redskins. He started in all 16 games and finished with a total of 89 combined tackles (70 solo), eight pass deflections, a career-high three sacks, a fumble recovery, and two interceptions.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2018/ |access-date=November 6, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2019 Kansas City Chiefs season}}

On March 14, 2019, the Kansas City Chiefs signed Mathieu to a three–year, $42.00 million contract that includes $26.80 million guaranteed and an initial signing bonus of $14.80 million.{{Cite web |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |date=March 11, 2019 |title=Chiefs sign Tyrann Mathieu to 3-year deal |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chiefs-sign-tyrann-mathieu-to-3-year-deal-0ap3000001022066 |access-date=March 31, 2019 |website=NFL.com}} He entered training camp projected to earn the role as the starting strong safety, as the successor to Eric Berry. Head coach Andy Reid named Mathieu and Juan Thornhill the starting safeties to begin the season.{{cite web| title=Chiefs release first depth chart of 2019 season| url=https://chiefswire.usatoday.com/2019/09/03/kansas-city-chiefs-release-first-depth-chart-of-2019-regular-season/ |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=chiefswire.usatoday.com| author=Charles Goldman| date=September 3, 2019}}{{cite web| title=Chiefs’ full 53-man roster revealed after cuts| url=https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2019/8/31/20842428/chiefs-full-53-man-roster-revealed-after-cuts |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=arrowheadpride.com| author=Pete Sweeney| date=August 31, 2019}}

In Week 6, he collected a season-high ten solo tackles and broke up a pass during a 24–31 loss against his former team, the Houston Texans. On November 18, 2019, Mathieu made eight combined tackles (four solo), a pass deflection, and intercepted a pass thrown by Philip Rivers during a 24–17 win at the Los Angeles Chargers. The following week, he made one solo tackle, a pass deflection, and intercepted a pass by Derek Carr to tight end Darren Waller as the Chiefs routed the Oakland Raiders 40–9. On December 29, 2019, Mathieu recorded seven solo tackles, two pass deflections, and intercepted a pass by Philip Rivers to wide receiver Mike Williams in a 31–21 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers. He was AFC Defensive Player of the Month for December.{{Cite web |last=Sweeney |first=Pete |date=January 2, 2020 |title=Tyrann Mathieu wins AFC defensive player of the month for December |url=https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2020/1/2/21046516/tyrann-mathieu-wins-afc-defensive-player-of-the-month-for-december |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Arrowhead Pride |language=en}} He finished with 75 combined tackles (63 solo), four interceptions, 12 passes defended, and two sacks.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2019/ |access-date=March 17, 2021 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He earned first team All-Pro honors.{{Cite web |title=2019 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2019/allpro.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

The Kansas City Chiefs finished the 2019 NFL season first in the AFC West with a 12–4 record, clinching a first round bye. The Chiefs defeated the Houston Texans 51–31 in the Divisional Round. On January 19, 2020, Mathieu made nine combined tackles (six solo) and broke up a pass as the Chiefs defeated the Tennessee Titans 35–24 in the AFC Championship Game. On February 2, 2020, Mathieu started in Super Bowl LIV and made six combined tackles (four solo) as the Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers 31–20. He earned his first and only Super Bowl ring of his career.{{Cite web |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=February 2, 2020 |title=Chiefs rally once again to defeat 49ers, win SB LIV |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chiefs-rally-once-again-to-defeat-49ers-win-sb-liv-0ap3000001100762 |access-date=October 31, 2023 |website=NFL.com |language=en-US}} He was ranked 39th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2020.{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2020-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2020 Kansas City Chiefs season}}

He began training camp as the starting strong safety under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Head coach Andy Reid named him the starting strong safety to start the season, alongside free safety Daniel Sorensen.{{cite web| title=Chiefs release first depth chart of 2020 season| url=https://chiefswire.usatoday.com/lists/kansas-city-chiefs-release-first-depth-chart-2020-regular-season/ |access-date=February 22, 2025| website=chiefswire.usatoday.com| author=Charles Goldman| date=September 6, 2020}}

On September 13, 2020, Mathieu started in the Kansas City Chiefs' home-opener against the Houston Texans and collected a season-high eight combined tackles (six solo) during a 34–20 victory. On October 5, 2020, Mathieu recorded four solo tackles, broke up a pass, and returned an interception thrown by Jarrett Stidham to Julian Edelman 25–yards for a touchdown as the Chiefs defeated the New England Patriots 26–10.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Kansas City Chiefs – October 5, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010050kan.htm |access-date=October 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 11, he made five combined tackles (four solo), deflected a pass, and intercepted a pass attempt by Tom Brady during a 27–24 win at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. On December 6, 2020, Mathieu made six combined tackles (four solo), a season-high two pass deflections, and tied his career-high of two interceptions on passes thrown by Drew Lock with the second interception occurring late in the fourth quarter, securing a 22–16 win against the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs – December 6th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202012060kan.htm |access-date=December 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The following week, he made two solo tackles, tied his season-high to of two pass deflections, and set a career-high with his six interception of the season on a pass by Tua Tagovailoa to wide receiver Jakeem Grant during a 33–27 win at the Miami Dolphins in Week 14. He was inactive as a healthy scratch for the Chiefs' Week 17 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers as head coach Andy Reid opted to rest the starting lineup as they had already clinched a playoff berth. This ended his active streak of 63 consecutive regular season starts. He finished the 2020 season with 62 combined tackles (48 solo), nine passes defended, one fumble recovery, a career-high six interceptions, and a touchdown in 15 games and 15 starts.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2020 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2020/ |access-date=March 17, 2021 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He earned his first Pro Bowl nomination since the 2015 season.{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2020/probowl.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was named as a first team All-Pro.{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2020/allpro.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

The Kansas City Chiefs finished the 2020 NFL season a top the AFC West with a 14–2 record, while also clinching home-field advantage and a first-round bye. On January 17, 2021, Mathieu started in the Divisional Round of the playoffs against the Cleveland Browns and made seven combined tackles (five solo), broke up a pass, and intercepted a pass thrown by Baker Mayfield to Jarvis Landry during the 22–17 win.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Cleveland Browns at Kansas City Chiefs – January 17th, 2021 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202101170kan.htm |access-date=January 20, 2021 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The following week, he made six solo tackles as the Chiefs defeated the Buffalo Bills 38–24 in the AFC Championship Game. On February 7, 2021, Mathieu started in Super Bowl LV and recorded three combined tackles (two solo) as the Chiefs lost 9–31 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During the game, Mathieu got in a verbal altercation with Buccaneers' quarterback Tom Brady and tweeted that Brady "called me something I won't repeat" after the game. Mathieu later removed the tweet. Brady was mic'd up during said altercation, but the NFL refused to release the audio.{{Cite web |last=Shifferaw |first=Abel |date=February 7, 2021 |title=Tyrann Mathieu on His Exchange With Tom Brady: 'He Called Me Something I Won't Repeat' (Update) |url=https://www.complex.com/sports/tyrann-mathieu-on-tom-brady-exchange-during-super-bowl-lv-he-called-me-something-i-wont-repeat |access-date=February 9, 2021 |website=Complex |language=en}} He was ranked 58th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2021.{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2020-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2021 Kansas City Chiefs season}}

He returned as the starting strong safety to begin the regular season and was paired with free safety Daniel Sorensen.

On September 1, 2021, Mathieu tested positive for COVID-19 and was placed on the COVID-19/reserve list.{{Cite web |last=Teicher |first=Adam |date=September 1, 2021 |title=Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu placed on COVID-19 list after positive test, sources say that|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32128398/kansas-city-chiefs-safety-tyrann-mathieu-placed-covid-19-list-positive-test-sources-say |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}} On September 11, 2021, he returned to the active roster and was activated off the COVID-19/reserve list.{{Cite web |last=Teicher |first=Adam |date=September 11, 2021 |title=Kansas City Chiefs activate Tyrann Mathieu off COVID-19 list |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32189338/kansas-city-chiefs-activate-tyrann-mathieu-covid-19-list |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}} However, as a precaution he remained inactive during the Chiefs' home-opener against the Cleveland Browns as they won 33–29.{{Cite web |last=Palmer |first=Tod |date=September 12, 2021 |title=Chiefs SS Mathieu, Browns WR Beckham inactive for opener |url=https://www.kshb.com/sports/chiefs-ss-mathieu-browns-wr-beckham-inactive-for-opener |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=KSHB 41 Kansas City News |language=en}} On September 19, 2021, he made six combined tackles (five solo), a season-high three pass deflections, a season-high two interceptions, and scored a touchdown after returning an interception thrown by Lamar Jackson to Sammy Watkins 34–yards on the opening drive as the Chiefs lost 36–35 at the Baltimore Ravens.{{Cite web |last=Peery |first=Wade |date=September 20, 2021 |title=Watch: Tyrann Mathieu starts Sunday Night Football with a pick six |url=https://www.on3.com/news/watch-tyrann-mathieu-starts-monday-night-football-with-a-pick-six-lsu/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=On3 |language=en}} In Week 13, he collected a season-high nine combined tackles (seven solo) during a 22–9 win against the Denver Broncos. The following week, he made five solo tackles, a pass deflection, and intercepted a pass by Derek Carr as the Chiefs routed the Las Vegas Raiders 48–9. He finished the season with 76 combined tackles (60 solo), three interceptions, six passes defended, three fumble recoveries, and one touchdown in 16 games and 16 starts..{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2021 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2021/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was named to his third career Pro Bowl.{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2021/probowl.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

The Kansas City Chiefs finished first in the AFC West for a third consecutive season and clinched a playoff berth with a 14–3 record. They defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 42–21 in the AFC Wildcard Game and defeated the Buffalo Bills 42–36 in the Divisional Round. For the third consecutive season, the Chiefs appeared in the AFC Championship Game. On January 30, 2022, Mathieu started in the AFC Championship Game and made five solo tackles as the Chiefs lost 24–27 in overtime to the Cincinnati Bengals. He was ranked 70th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2022.{{Cite web |title=2022 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2022-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2022 Kansas City Chiefs season}}

He entered free agency at the conclusion of the 2021 NFL season and publicly expressed his desire to remain with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs signed his former teammate, Houston Texans' safety Justin Reid, and drafted Bryan Cook in the second-round of the 2022 NFL draft. They did not make an offer to Mathieu which left him speechless. He has a virtual meeting with the Philadelphia Eagles. On March 5, 2022, Mathieu returned home to Louisiana and met with the New Orleans Saints during his trip to his hometown of New Orleans.

{{See also|2022 New Orleans Saints season}}

On May 4, 2022, the New Orleans Saints signed Mathieu to a three–year, $28.30 million contract that includes $18.00 million guaranteed and an initial signing bonus of $9.50 million. With incentives he can earn up to $33.00 million.{{Cite web |last=Skretta |first=Dave |date=May 3, 2022 |title=AP source: Saints agree with Mathieu on 3-year, $33M deal |url=https://apnews.com/article/nfl-sports-free-agency-marcus-williams-tyrann-mathieu-f581823f9aeb2234b861b34b2f2a25c1 |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=AP NEWS |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=May 4, 2022 |title=New Orleans Saints sign safety Tyrann Mathieu to three-year contract |url=https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-new-orleans-saints-safety-nfl-free-agency-2022 |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=NewOrleansSaints.com}} He entered training camp slated as the de facto starting strong safety following the departures of C. J. Gardner-Johnson, Malcolm Jenkins, and Marcus Williams. Head coach Dennis Allen listed him as a starter to begin the season and paired him with starting free safety Marcus Maye.

On October 30, 2022, he made five combined tackles (four solo), a season–high two pass deflections, and intercepted a pass thrown by Derek Carr to Hunter Renfrow during a 24–0 win against the Las Vegas Raiders. In Week 16, he collected a season-high 11 combined tackles (six solo) during a 17–10 victory against the Cleveland Browns. On January 8, 2023, Mathieu made eight combined tackles (four solo), a pass deflection, and intercepted a pass thrown by Sam Darnold to wide receiver D. J. Moore during a 7–10 loss to the Carolina Panthers. He started all 17 games and made a career-high 91 combined tackles (64 solo), three interceptions, eight passes defended, one sack, and one forced fumble.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2022 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2022/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2023 New Orleans Saints season}}

Head coach Dennis Allen named Mathieu and Marcus Maye as the starting safeties to begin the regular season.{{cite web|title=Saints release first depth chart ahead of Week 1 game vs. Titans| url=https://saintswire.usatoday.com/lists/saints-depth-chart-against-titans-week-1/| access-date=February 22, 2025| website=saintswire.usatoday.com| author=John Sigler| date=September 7, 2023}} On October 8, 2023, he made one solo tackle, a pass deflection, and returned an interception thrown by Mac Jones to running back Rhamondre Stevenson 27–yards for a touchdown during a 34–0 victory at the New England Patriots.{{Cite web |title=New Orleans Saints at New England Patriots - October 8th, 2023 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202310080nwe.htm |access-date=2024-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On November 26, 2023, Mathieu made four combined tackles (three solo), a season-high two pass deflections, and tied his career-high of two interceptions on passes by Desmond Ridder during a 15–24 loss at the Atlanta Falcons. In Week 16, he collected a season-high nine combined tackles (six solo) and broke up a pass during a 22–30 loss at the Los Angeles Rams. He finished the season with 75 combined tackles (50 solo), four interceptions, nine passes defended, and one touchdown while starting in all 17 games.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2023 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2023/ |access-date=2024-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

{{See also|2024 New Orleans Saints season}}

On March 7, 2024, the New Orleans Saints signed Mathieu to a two–year, $13.75 million contract extension that includes $9.00 million guaranteed upon signing and an initial signing bonus of $5.00 million.{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Andrew |date=March 7, 2024 |title=Tyrann Mathieu, Saints Agree to New 2-Year Contract Worth Reported $13M |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10112113-tyrann-mathieu-saints-agree-to-new-2-year-contract-worth-reported-13m |access-date=March 15, 2024 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}} Mathieu returned as the starting free safety and was paired with strong safety Will Harris.

On September 22, 2024, Mathieu collected a season-high seven solo tackles, made one pass deflection, and intercepted a pass thrown by Jalen Hurts to wide receiver DeVonta Smith during a 12–15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. On November 4, 2024, the New Orleans Saints announced the firing of head coach Dennis Allen after falling to a 2–7 record. Special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi was appointed the interim head coach for the remainder of the season. On November 10, 2024, he recorded three solo tackles, a season-high three pass deflections, and intercepted a pass by Kirk Cousins to receiver Drake London as the Saints defeated the Atlanta Falcons 17–20.{{cite web| title=Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints - November 10th, 2024| url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202411100nor.htm |access-date=March 1, 2025| website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}} He started all 17 games during the 2024 NFL season and finished with 62 combined tackles (47 solo), seven pass deflections, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.{{Cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu 2024 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MathTy00/gamelog/2024/ |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

Mathieu began going by the monicker "the Honeybadger" in September 2011 after a game against West Virginia. It originated when LSU Tigers' defensive coordinator John Chavis saw fans calling Mathieu "the Honeybadger" on sites and on the bus after playing West Virginia Chavis implored him to go by the nickname. Although Mathieu was hesitant at first, he took Chavis' advice and began using the nickname and stated he's happy he listened and had profited off the monicker.

{{quote box

|align=right

|width=50%

|quote="We had played West Virginia one night on ESPN, and I got on the bus after the game and our D Coordinator, John Chavis at the time, he was on the Internet. Coaches always tell you not to get on the Internet - They read everything on the Internet. He's like on the blogs, all the gossip sites reading," and he's like "'Hey man, this is your new nickname!' And I'm like 'What?', and he's showing me the video, and I'm like 'Coach...' and he's like 'Trust me, just go with it. You'll make a lot of money one day.'."{{cite web |title=Tyrann Mathieu recalls origins of "Honey Badger" nickname |url=https://247sports.com/Article/tyrann-mathieu-honey-badger-nickname-origin-john-chavis-lsu-tigers-kansas-city-chiefs-142869789/ |access-date=October 29, 2018 |website=247sports.com |author=Taranto, Steven |date=January 28, 2020}}

|source=–Tyrann Mathieu

(On the origin of "the Honeybadger")

}}

On May 10, 2013, Mathieu stated during an interview while watching former teammates practice at the Senior Bowl that he wanted to remove himself from any association with his "Honey Badger" nickname, saying that he wants to be known as "Tyrann Mathieu". This was an attempt to rebuild his reputation following a dismissal from LSU for failing multiple drug tests and an arrest for marijuana possession.{{Cite web |last=Wolken |first=Dan |date=May 10, 2013 |title=Former LSU star Tyrann Mathieu says goodbye to the 'Honey Badger' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2013/01/21/lousiana-state-lsu-tyrann-mathieu-senior-bowl-nfl/1852971/ |access-date=June 23, 2023 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US}} Although he attempted to disassociate himself with his "Honey Badger" moniker, he would still be known by it throughout his career and finally publicly accepted his alter-ego in 2019. In 2019, Kansas City Chiefs' head coach Andy Reid called Mathieu "T-5". He began going by "T-5" as his new nickname during training camp immediately after joining the Chiefs.{{cite web |title=Chiefs’ Tyrann Mathieu explains why ‘T-5’ is one of his nicknames| url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article233577302.html|access-date=February 21, 2025| website=KansasCity.com| date=August 6, 2019| author=Pete Grafhoff}} Prior to his regular season debut with the Chiefs in September 2019, Mathieu was renamed by fans and teammates as "The Landlord", because he's the guy who collected the rent.{{cite web| title=Why Tyrann Mathieu and the ‘Honey Badger’ were at odds, and how they came to co-exist| url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article238726833.html |access-date=February 21, 2025| website=KansasCity.com| date=December 29, 2019| author=Vahe Gregorian}}{{cite web| title=For Tyrann Mathieu, his newest nickname reflects the player he’s become| url=https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2021/2/4/22266244/for-chiefs-safety-tyrann-mathieu-newest-nickname-reflects-player-hes-become-nfl-super-bowl-lv|access-date=February 21, 2025| website=arrowheadpride.com| date=February 4, 2021| author=John Dixon}}

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• {{Footballstats|nfl=2540180|espn=15851|yahoo=26692|pfr=MathTy00}}
• [https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/players-roster/tyrann-mathieu/ New Orleans Saints bio]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20160107184017/http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=204879593 LSU Tigers bio]

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Category:1992 births

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