The Cardinals are evaluating the contract status of defensive back Tyrann Mathieu, general manager Steve Keim told reporters today, but the Arizona decision-maker sounded “very non-committal” about picking up Mathieu’s 2018 option, tweets Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.
Mathieu, 25, inked a five-year, $62.5MM extension with the Cardinals prior to the 2016 campaign. That deal, on its face, locked the former third-round pick in Arizona through 2021, but the deal contains a roster bonus that will determine Mathieu’s fate with the club. Mathieu will collect a $5MM bonus if he’s on the Arizona roster on March 14. Not only that, but Mathieu’s entire 2018 base salary ($5.75MM) and $8MM of his $10.75MM 2019 base salary would become fully guaranteed.
The Cardinals could release Mathieu before mid-March and not be forced to make those payments, but the club would still be on the hook for $9.3MM in dead money. Arizona would create $4.8MM in cap space by cutting Mathieu, but it’s possible the two sides could work out a pay reduction or contract restructuring, allowing Mathieu to stay in the desert while the Cardinals save cash and cap space.
Mathieu was a Pro Bowler and one of the NFL’s best defensive backs as recently as 2015, but he’s struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness over the past two seasons. Last year, Mathieu managed to start all 16 games, but only graded as the league’s No. 61 cornerback among 121 qualifiers, per Pro Football Focus.
Giants should trade for him.
Honey Badger and LC.
Wow, ” was a Pro Bowler as RECENTLY as 2015???
That’s a lifetime ago for a physical DB looking to continue to cash in!
Finished last year in the 50th % as far as DB’s and did start all 16 games but certainly a concern longer term as he gets older and continues his style of play.
Bring Tyrann to New England!!
F that. He’s staying in Arizona!!!!!
I sure hope the badger restructures his contract and stays a cardinal. He has a lot of spirit.
He’ll eventually end up being a slot corner, SS like he played more of at LSU. This is where I wish the Saints had more cap room to bring Landry and Mathieu back to the state.