The latest on Tyrann Mathieu ahead of opener for Cheifs vs. Browns

On3 imageby:Sean Labar09/11/21

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Tyrann Mathieu is an obvious key to the Kansas City Cheifs defense, but as of Saturday afternoon, his status for Sunday’s AFC battle against the Browns is uncertain.

“A game-time decision for the Honey Badger,” NFL Insider Ian Rappaport said.

Rappaport was expanding on an earlier report from NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo.

“Chiefs announce Tyrann Mathieu has been activated from the COVID-19 list. However, sounds like they still want to monitor him before tomorrow. He’s been idle for over a week, so we’ll see what his status winds up being vs. the Browns.”

Odell Beckham vs. Tyrann Mathieu?

Cleveland Browns star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. is still making his way back from ACL surgery. Since being cleared to practice, the Browns have been taking the cautious route for his recovery. After Beckham was limited in practice Friday, head coach Kevin Stefanski gave very little information on his wideout’s status.

“I think he was limited today, so we will use the next 48 hours with all of these guys and determine who is playing and who is not,” Stefanski said. “We will let you know 90 minutes before the game.”

When it comes to LSU star power in the NFL, Mathieu and Beckham top the list. The Browns are a true contender in the AFC this season, while Kansas City is atop of the league with Tampa Bay.

This Week 1 matchup has excitement written all over it, but most NFL fans would love to see Beckham attempt to make his comeback from injury against Mathieu, one of the top defensive backs in the league.

The clock is ticking for both players.

This weekend’s matchup is one of the best on the opening Sunday slate, with two teams many believe will meet in the AFC Playoffs. On paper, it appears to be a battle featuring two high-powered offenses. The Chiefs have NFL megastar Patrick Mahomes leading the charge, with Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce on the outside. To counter that the Browns have signal-caller Baker Mayfield and former LSU star wideout Jarvis Landry. Having Beckham play would complete the Browns trio. Beckham is an elite talent and is dangerous from almost anywhere on the field. Before his season-ending ACL injury, he had 319 yards receiving, three touchdowns receiving, one rushing, and even completed a pass. With all that he can do, having him on the field is a huge asset to the Browns’ game planning.

The game is set to kickoff at 4:25 PM EST at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.