News Summary
Tyrann Mathieu, the renowned safety of the New Orleans Saints, has officially retired from the NFL after a stellar 12-year career. The announcement marks the conclusion of his journey, which included time with the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Saints. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and commitment to community service through his foundation, Mathieu made a significant impact both on and off the field. His legacy encompasses numerous accolades and a dedication to youth support in New Orleans.
New Orleans, LA – Tyrann Mathieu, the celebrated safety of the New Orleans Saints, has announced his retirement from the NFL after an impressive 12-year career. The announcement came on July 22, 2025, marking the end of a journey that saw Mathieu become one of the league’s most impactful defensive players.
Mathieu’s professional football career began when he was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, selected 69th overall. A native of New Orleans, Mathieu attended St. Augustine High School before going on to play collegiate football at Louisiana State University (LSU). He gained national recognition during his time at LSU, finishing as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2011 and earning the nickname “the Honey Badger.”
Despite a tumultuous college career that included his dismissal from LSU in 2012, Mathieu quickly made an impact in the NFL, playing a vital role for multiple teams over the years. Across his professional tenure, Mathieu played for the Arizona Cardinals (2013-2017), the Houston Texans (2018), the Kansas City Chiefs (2019-2021), and finally, the New Orleans Saints (2022-2024).
Over the course of 180 regular-season games, Mathieu started 171 of them, recording an impressive set of statistics: a total of 834 tackles, including 681 solo; 11 sacks; and 36 interceptions, which he returned for a total of 530 yards, scoring four touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed with 106 pass breakups, seven forced fumbles, and eight fumble recoveries. For his skills on the field, Mathieu earned three selections to the Pro Bowl and was named a four-time All-Pro. He was also recognized as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2010’s All-Decade Team and was instrumental in the Chiefs’ victory during Super Bowl LIV.
During his three-year stint with the Saints, Mathieu continued to showcase his talents, starting all 51 games. He registered 228 tackles, 161 of which were solo, and achieved 10 interceptions—including one returned for a touchdown—along with one sack, 24 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Notably, he led the Saints in interceptions in 2022 and tied for the team lead in both 2023 and 2024.
Apart from his athletic achievements, Mathieu is also recognized for his contributions off the field. He founded the Tyrann Mathieu Foundation, aimed at providing support for youth and families in need, especially in his hometown. His dedication to community service earned him nominations for the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year award twice—once in 2021 while with the Chiefs and again in 2023 with the Saints.
Saints Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis expressed respect for Mathieu’s retirement decision, praising both his outstanding career and positive impact on the community. In his retirement announcement, Mathieu expressed gratitude for his football journey, highlighting the purpose, discipline, and community it fostered in his life. While he is departing from playing, he hinted that this may not be a definitive goodbye to football, suggesting possible future endeavors in the sport.
Tyrann Mathieu’s legacy in the NFL is characterized not only by his remarkable skills and accomplishments on the field but also by his unwavering commitment to community service and support for those in need. As he steps away from professional football, his impact will surely be felt both in the league and among the communities he served.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Sports: Tyrann Mathieu Announces His Retirement
- Wikipedia: Tyrann Mathieu
- USA Today: Tyrann Mathieu’s Retirement Announcement
- Google Search: Tyrann Mathieu
- Real GM: Saints’ Tyrann Mathieu Announces Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tyrann Mathieu
