Arizona Cardinals: 5 Players Primed to Breakout in 2015

Tyrann Mathieu, DB

Nov 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) reacts against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Rams 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

With incredible play-making ability on defense and special teams, Tyrann Mathieu burst onto the scene early in his college career at LSU. Unfortunately, multiple failed drug tests held Mathieu back as he was eventually kicked off the team. After sitting out a year, Mathieu entered the 2013 NFL Draft, where the Cardinals selected him in the third round (69th overall).

Mathieu’s first two seasons in the NFL have been very successful. The off-field concerns have not been a problem, and his raw play-making ability is certainly still there. Mathieu found himself in a bit of a hybrid role with the Cardinals last season, playing both as a coverage safety and as a slot corner.

His speed and athleticism allows him to keep up with smaller and quicker slot receivers, while his natural ball skills make him a weapon as a deep safety. The Cardinals are loaded with options at the safety position, and while Mathieu will undoubtedly see some time at the position, it is going to be hard for him to unseat starting free safety Rashad Johnson.

That being said, I could certainly see the Cardinals lining both Johnson and Mathieu up at the safety position at times against high-powered passing attacks.

Mathieu may be able to make more of a difference for Arizona at the cornerback position. Antonio Cromartie left the team this off season via free agency, and while Jerraud Powers and Justin Bethel are there to take his CB position opposite of Patrick Peterson, it may leave a bit of a void inside. Mathieu’s ability to play the slot will be key for this team.

Whether at safety or slot corner, Mathieu has a chance to make a serious impact on the Cardinals’ defense. He is a very talented and instinctive player who has a lot of upside going forward. With a couple of years in the league under his belt, 2015 could be the year for Mathieu to shine.

Next: A New Face at the Linebacker Position