NEW ORLEANS, La. (July 22, 2025) — One of the NFL’s most electrifying defensive playmakers of the past decade is calling it a career. New Orleans Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu officially announced his retirement on Tuesday, ending a 12-year professional journey defined by grit, leadership, and playmaking brilliance.
Mathieu, affectionately known as the “Honey Badger,” leaves behind a remarkable legacy that spans four NFL franchises, multiple individual accolades, and an enduring impact on and off the field. The New Orleans native finishes his career having played in 180 regular season games with 171 starts, collecting 834 total tackles (681 solo), 11 sacks, and an impressive 36 interceptions — second among active players at the time of his retirement.
His ability to flip the script on a game was well documented. Of those 36 interceptions, four were returned for touchdowns, and his 530 total return yards often shifted momentum in favor of his team. Mathieu added 106 career pass breakups, seven forced fumbles, and eight fumble recoveries, displaying a nose for the football that became his calling card.
A Career of Resilience and Excellence
Drafted in the third round (69th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals after a stellar but turbulent college career at LSU, Mathieu quickly silenced any doubts. Despite early injuries that challenged his durability, he blossomed into a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ secondary, playing five seasons in the desert and earning his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors in 2015.
In 2018, Mathieu spent a single season with the Houston Texans before signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, where his career hit new heights. From 2019 to 2021, Mathieu served as the vocal leader and emotional engine of a Chiefs defense that helped deliver a Super Bowl LIV title. He was named an All-Pro in both 2019 and 2020, and his championship pedigree was cemented in Kansas City.
He came full circle in 2022, returning home to sign with the New Orleans Saints. Over his final three seasons, Mathieu brought veteran leadership and stability to the Saints secondary, recording seven interceptions and continuing to mentor younger teammates.
Hall of Fame Résumé
Mathieu’s resume is littered with accomplishments that put him firmly in Hall of Fame conversations. He was a three-time Pro Bowler, three-time First-Team All-Pro selection, and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2010s All-Decade Team — a reflection of his consistent excellence during a transformational era for defensive backs.
He also left a mark in the postseason, playing in 11 playoff games with 10 starts, tallying 49 tackles, four pass deflections, and one interception returned for 17 yards.
More Than a Football Player
Beyond the stat sheet, Tyrann Mathieu’s journey is one of perseverance and redemption. After being dismissed from LSU due to off-field issues, he rebuilt his reputation with humility and hard work. Over time, he became a beacon of hope for young athletes across New Orleans and the nation.
A proud alum of St. Augustine High School, Mathieu remained deeply connected to his roots. Whether through his charitable foundation, mentorship of local youth, or candid interviews about his personal growth, the Honey Badger used his platform for good.
What’s Next?
While Mathieu has not yet announced what lies ahead, his next chapter could include broadcasting, coaching, or continued community advocacy. Whatever the case, his presence will be felt for years to come in the city that raised him and the league he helped shape.
As he steps away from the field, Tyrann Mathieu leaves behind more than accolades — he leaves a blueprint for resilience, heart, and making the most of every second on the gridiron.
