Saints' defender hasn't let age stop him from being elite
The New Orleans Saints were fifth in total defense in 2022. Safety Tyrann Mathieu, who the Saints acquired last May, had a lot to do with that. Mathieu racked up a career-high 91 tackles last season and helped the Saints' pass defense finish second in the NFL (184.4 yards per game). He may not have […]
The New Orleans Saints were fifth in total defense in 2022. Safety Tyrann Mathieu, who the Saints acquired last May, had a lot to do with that.
Mathieu racked up a career-high 91 tackles last season and helped the Saints' pass defense finish second in the NFL (184.4 yards per game).
He may not have made the Pro Bowl or received an All-Pro selection last season, but Pro Football Focus recognized that Mathieu is still one of the best players at his position and named him the seventh-best safety in the league.
“The Honey Badger” is always in the middle of things and was at his best playing for his hometown Saints. Mathieu’s 87.9 coverage grade last season led all safeties, and he gave up only one reception of 20-plus yards. His elite versatility and instincts allow Dennis Allen to use his entire playbook. Mathieu showed he still has plenty in the tank during his age-30 campaign.
Versatility is an understatement.
Mathieu logged 525 snaps in the box, 315 at free safety, 195 in the slot, 19 as an outside cornerback, and even 74 on the defensive line in 2022. He only allowed a passer rating of 65.9 and gave just 7.6 yards per reception.
The 87.9 coverage grade of Mathieu was the second-highest of his 10-year career and his 81.2 defense grade was his third-best (highest since 2015).
Mathieu wasn't the only safety that came to New Orleans in 2022 during free agency. Marcus Maye, a former second-round pick, joined Mathieu as they looked to give the Saints some stability at safety.
The investment was worth it for the Saints, and Mathieu feels their second year together in New Orleans could be even more productive.
"I definitely feel way more comfortable (now)," Mathieu said, via Nola.com. "I definitely have a better understanding of the scheme and philosophy. … I definitely feel like we've grown closer outside of football, but I think when it comes to football, we definitely understand each other much better."
He might be getting older, but Mathieu is aging like fine wine on the field.
Feature image via Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
