Free agent defensive back Tyrann Mathieu is expected to sign a three-year, $42 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs., per multiple reports. His new contract is anticipated to pay him $12 per season. Mathieu spent his first five seasons of his career with the Arizona Cardinals, while he spent the 2018 campaign with the Houston Texans.
The #Chiefs are signing former #Texans S Tyrann Mathieu to a 3-year deal worth $42M, source said. This was their top target in free agency, prying him from the #Texans.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2019
Tyrann Mathieu to Sign With the Kansas City Chiefs
Tyrann Mathieu put together a strong 2018 season with the Houston Texans. While playing in an improved Texans defense, Mathieu accumulated 89 combined tackles paired with three takeaways. After a Cardinals tenure marred by injury, Mathieu has now put together his second-consecutive season playing in all 16 games. This only looks to serve him well for the years to come, as he is an elite-level defensive player when on the field.
Mathieu’s calling card comes from his versatility, able to play seemingly across the defensive backfield. He thrives primarily playing a nickel-cornerback role, however never fails to make an impact across the field. He is a tough player that never fails to make an impact, which boded well for him as he hit the open market. With this signing, Mathieu will once again step into his true hybrid-safety role and projects as one of the best at the position in 2019.
Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals with the 69th pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, Mathieu elevated himself above what he showed at LSU. With a small frame (5’9”, 190lbs), Mathieu has shown a toughness to make necessary tackles in open space and fight for the ball when needed. In his young NFL career, the “Honey Badger” has accumulated 13 interceptions and 394 combined tackles and seven sacks. When put into perspective, given his injuries throughout his early career, these numbers are nothing short of phenomenal. When on the field, Mathieu will only add to his strong numbers.
Overall, Mathieu would have proven a valuable addition to any team, and will certainly thrive on his new contract. With a now-healthy body coupled with his defensive versatility, Mathieu looks to remain one of the league’s best safeties so long as he remains on the field.
Main photo:
Embed from Getty Images
