Super Bowl champion Tyrann Mathieu announces retirement from NFL

Super Bowl champion Tyrann Mathieu made an announcement on social media regarding his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday.

Mathieu, known as the “Honey Badger,” spent his final three seasons of a 12-year career with the New Orleans Saints.

“As I hang up my cleats, I’m filled with gratitude as I close this chapter of my life and officially retire from the game that’s shaped me in every way,” Mathieu shared in his post.

“From my first snap in college to my final play in the NFL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing. Football gave me a purpose, discipline, and memories that will stay with me forever. But more than anything, it gave me a community.”

Mathieu gained recognition during his college days at LSU, finishing fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting as a standout defensive back in his sophomore year.

Despite his talent, Mathieu faced off-the-field issues that led to his fall to the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft before being selected by the Arizona Cardinals.

Mathieu then found success with the Cardinals, being named to an All-Pro team twice during his five-year tenure with the team.

After a season with the Houston Texans, Mathieu joined the Kansas City Chiefs and played a pivotal role in the team’s Super Bowl victory in 2019.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and strong safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) celebrate after beating the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium on February 2, 2020, in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Matthew Emmons/USA TODAY Sports)

Mathieu concluded his NFL career after playing 180 games, achieving 838 combined tackles, 11 sacks, 36 interceptions, 100 passes defended, seven forced fumbles, and eight fumble recoveries, with four interceptions returned for touchdowns.

“I hope I made you proud out there. This isn’t goodbye – it’s just the next chapter. Much love, always. Tyrann.”