Tyrann Mathieu

Tyrann Mathieu is an acclaimed figure in the world of professional football, currently serving as a safety for the New Orleans Saints in the NFL. His career, which began when he was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, has been marked by a series of significant accomplishments. In his rookie year, he was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team, laying a solid foundation for his future successes. Mathieu has repeatedly demonstrated his skill on the field, earning him recognition not only from his peers but from the wider sporting community.

Mathieu's performance reached new heights during his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, with whom he won Super Bowl LIV. He was named to the Pro Bowl three times, in 2015, 2020, and 2021, and was recognized as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press on multiple occasions. These achievements were recognized by his inclusion in the NFL Top 100 Players list multiple times. In 2019, Mathieu signed a three-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs before moving to the New Orleans Saints in 2022 with a three-year contract.

Before his professional career, Mathieu had already made a name for himself in college football. He was awarded the prestigious Chuck Bednarik Award in 2011, recognizing him as the best defensive player that year. That same year, he was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year and was a Consensus All-American. These early successes hinted at the exceptional career that was to follow, culminating in his inclusion in the NFL's 2010s All-Decade Team, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

Mathieu founded the Tyrann Mathieu Foundation to impact the lives of financially disadvantaged children and youth through encouragement, opportunities, and resources in his hometown of New Orleans. He speaks powerfully on overcoming adversity, personal redemption, and the strength found in perseverance—sharing his inspiring journey from LSU to NFL greatness. Opening up about his father’s 30-plus-year federal prison sentence, he reflects on how their emotional reunion reshaped his understanding of forgiveness, family, and generational healing. A passionate advocate for youth mentorship, education, and community advancement, he motivates audiences with lessons in leadership, accountability, and authenticity under pressure. Known for his humility and deep commitment to service, Mathieu uses his platform to encourage others to embrace mental toughness, believe in themselves, and live with purpose—proving that anyone can rewrite their story, no matter the circumstance. In 2025, he was honored with the Excellence in Mentoring Award.