Tyrann Mathieu has torn ACL, LCL
Arizona Cardinals punter returner Tyrann Mathieu in the third quarter against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Rams 30-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Arizona Cardinals initially feared that Tyrann Mathieu tore his ACL during yesterday’s game against the St. Louis Rams, and head coach Bruce Arians said as much following the game. Mathieu injured his left knee when making a tackle on special teams, and his loss for the season is a huge blow to the Cardinals defense.
According to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Cardinals worst fears have been realized, as Tyrann Mathieu did indeed tear his ACL, and he also tore the LCL in his left knee on that play. Rapoport reports that “tests confirmed” this and that Mathieu’s knee injury is “more significant” than what was initially believed.
It’s crushing news for Mathieu and the Cards, as Mathieu was one of the best rookies in this year’s draft class. He was sensational this season with lockdown coverage in the slot, solid coverage at free safety, plenty of versatility, and he also had a knack for making plenty of plays. Mathieu finishes the season with 68 tackles and nine passes defended, and he was definitely worth the risk for the Cardinals. Both he and Patrick Peterson give the Cardinals two excellent, young corners (and LSU products) going into the future, and Mathieu brings the added benefit of also being able to play FS at a relatively high level. Mathieu was easily one of the best rookies this season, and I can’t wait to see the kind of exciting plays he can make in the future.