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I Was Depressed’: Tyrann Mathieu Reflects on his Kansas City Chiefs Departure
Former Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu recently was providing fans with his perspective on not returning to play for his beloved franchise. The 3-year association with the team did see him win a Super Bowl title with them in 2019. Mathieu was one of the crucial players in the Chiefs’ defense, and his versatility to play at any position was a real asset for the team.
He did live up to his nickname, the ‘Honey Badger’ during his college years at LSU, and it translated to his success in the NFL. While he remains without a team as free agency rumbles on, Mathieu was sharing his thoughts on leaving Kansas City.
While describing his emotions to Kansas City Star’s Sam McDowell, Mathieu states, “Bro, I was depressed. Heartbroken. Heart. Broken. I could not understand it. I could not, man.”
The Honey Badger seems to have taken the news of his exit hard and had high hopes of staying put with the Chiefs. But as the franchise signed young safety Justin Reid, Mathieu admits he would have signed the same deal. He continues to search for a new team to join ahead of the 2022 NFL season as the top remaining free agent.
Tyrann Mathieu wanted to play out his career in Kansas City
While stating he would have signed the deal offered to Reid, Mathieu admits being open to agreeing to take less money. The disappointment was too hard to bear, as Mathieu admits to not being a fan of moving as an NFL player. While Mathieu was earning $14 million in each of his three seasons, the Chiefs wanted to make a change.
While he might be lamenting about not staying, the Honey Badger has some suitors for his services in the market. According to recent reports, Mathieu was discussing with the New Orleans Saints ownership possibly joining them in 2022.
Unfortunately, there haven’t been concrete offers from any team for his elite defensive skills. He also brings veteran experience on the football field for any franchise looking to go to the next level.
Sep 19, 2021; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) runs for a third quarter gain after his catch defended by Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
The 2-time Pro Bowler remains the biggest boom-or-bust free agent for any contending NFL franchise. Mathieu ended up recording 171 solo tackles, 13 interceptions, and 27 pass deflections in 3 seasons with the Chiefs. But moving to a new organization will be a test of whether he can still play at an elite level.
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