WATCH: LSU releases video welcoming Tyrann Mathieu back to Louisiana
The prodigal son returns. Tyrann Mathieu is back in New Orleans, as the Saints are signing the former LSU star following the 2022 NFL Draft.
Fans are elated to have one of their favorite athletes return home to NOLA. In the aftermath of the news being revealed, LSU Football took to Twitter to release a video welcoming Mathieu back to town.
Of course, the three-time First-team All-Pro is from New Orleans, and played his college football at LSU. Mathieu has always put on for his hometown, and a return to the city he first made his name known is a tremendous story.
There was a keen interest from both sides to get a deal done, and it’s easy to see why. As the Saints enter a new era under coach Dennis Allen, there’s no better leader fit to join New Orleans than Mathieu, who will galvanize the fanbase.
It’s a great day, as the Tyrann Mathieu is coming home. New Orleans can get the Honey Badger float ready for Mardi Gras — as the prodigal son is on his way back to the Big Easy, and he’s ready to win.
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Moreover, Tyrann Mathieu put together a strong year for the Chiefs in 2021. He made 76 total tackles, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and a sack. He led the defense in tackles and interceptions. As a captain, he helped lead Kansas City to the AFC championship game – where it lost to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Mathieu, who turns 30 this year, signed a three-year, $42 million deal with Kansas City in 2019. Although he expressed interest in staying with the Chiefs, the organization had other considerations this offseason.
A former On3 Consensus four-star recruit out of the Class of 2010, Mathieu tallied 213 tackles and 13 interceptions over three seasons with the Chiefs. The 2021-22 season was his ninth in the NFL. He was with the Arizona Cardinals from 2013-2017 and Houston Texans in 2018. He was a third-round pick at No. 69 overall after an All-American career with the LSU Tigers.
Tyrann Mathieu’s return to New Orleans brings him much closer to his alma mater as well. He’s been a frequent visitor in Baton Rouge since his departure from the program. Mathieu has also put in work to help the Brian Kelly era get off on the right track.