Saints S Tyrann Mathieu describes what it's like to tackle Derrick Henry
If you ever wanted to know what it’s like to tackle Derrick Henry, Tyrann Mathieu has you covered.
He’s just looking out for you, so you don’t have to get in-front of the Tennessee Titans star. Joining The Rich Eisen Show, Mathieu described what the sensation is like, and it’s not one that many would envy.
“He’s one of those guys, he’s a special player. You know obviously he’s a big back that you know, grooves and can punish a defense,” said Mathieu. “You know I mean, he’s known to get into some space, hit you with a stiff-arm or outrun a few people. So you just have to be ready to roll man, keep your pads low, take the right angles and get all 11 hats to the ball.”
As Mathieu stated, it’s a team-effort to tackle Henry. There isn’t anyone on the defense who can take a play off, or you run the risk of the former Alabama star taking it for six every time he touches the ball.
Nevertheless, it can’t be a great feeling, especially as a safety, watching Henry barrel towards you. The risk of becoming a meme by virtue of his nasty stiff arm runs high, and it isn’t for the faint of heart.
Still, you don’t become a player of Tyrann Mathieu’s caliber by running from challenges. Whether it’s Derrick Henry or someone else, you can bet “The Honey Badger” isn’t shying away.
Tyrann Mathieu reveals lessons he’s learned from Deion Sanders
Tyrann Mathieu has gone from troubled prospect to having a long, prosperous NFL career, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
The former Arizona Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans safety is entering another season with the New Orleans Saints, and before he gets into the rigors of another campaign, he stopped by The Rich Eisen Show to drop some knowledge. Specifically, he recalled some conversations he’s had over his career with NFL legend and current Colorado Buffaloes leader, Deion Sanders.
“I remember Deion visited me when I was in Florida, training with Patrick Peterson, and you know, he was always in support of me,” explained the NFL veteran. “He was always encouraging. He would always give me these words of advice, to stay focused and stay committed to football, and obviously keep God first, and you know, it’s probably best to keep great people around you.
“I was always thankful for Deion, and all the encouraging words he gave me, and he still gives me to this day.”
For anyone that thinks Sanders is putting on an act when you hear him speak, Mathieu wants you to know you’re wrong, as he’s more than grateful for Sanders’ tutelage.
“He’s always been that kind of person,” added Mathieu. “Obviously he’s self-motivated, and I think we all kind of know that from his playing days. You know, he always believes in himself, and his abilities and what he can do, but I was always grateful, because he always tried to pour that into me.
“So you know, always was grateful to kind of hear his voice, and like I said, still to this day, he’s one of those encouraging voices in my ear.”