NFL insider reveals free agent Tyrann Mathieu has completed second visit

Current free agent safety Tyrann Mathieu has completed a virtual visit with the Philadelphia Eagles, as the Eagles have emerged as a prime location for the Pro Bowl-level defender, according to Ian Rapoport. Mathieu also completed a virtual visit with the New Orleans Saints earlier this week as well.

But why is one of the top free agents in the game still left on the market? Rapoport believes the LSU legend is holding out for what he believes his talent is worth in 2022. NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared that the former Tiger has received offers – but apparently none that have met expectations so far.

“Yeah, look he could have signed,” Rapoport said. “It’s, ‘Are you getting the contract you want? That you’ve earned.’ The really good ones who know their value will just hang out and wait. It doesn’t always work out, but a lot of times it does. Because if you’re a great player, you have all the leverage. You’re a great player. You just have to be patient and hang with it a little bit.”

Mathieu put together a strong year for the Kansas City Chiefs this season, making 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 before ultimately losing to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Regarding his visit with the Saints, Mathieu told The Advocate, “First and foremost, it’s a great opportunity with Dennis Allen stepping into the lead position. He’s a great defensive mind. I have a lot of respect for Ms. (Gayle) Benson and the kind of things she does throughout the community. It’s a team I grew up watching. Any time I get to play in front of family and friends, it obviously gives me more energy. It would be a great opportunity if that was to come.”

Mathieu, who turns 30 this year, signed a three-year, $42 million deal with Kansas City in 2019. Although the former LSU star expressed interest in staying with the Chiefs, the organization had other considerations this offseason.