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Report: Cardinals trying to negotiate deal with Mathieu before training camp

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The Arizona Cardinals are trying to negotiate a contract extension with defensive back Tyrann Mathieu prior to the start of training camp in July, Ed Werder of ESPN reports.

Mathieu is coming back from a torn ACL and is entering a contract year, making the negotiations less straightforward than his play over the past two seasons might suggest.

Reports in May indicated the Cardinals were ready to make Mathieu the highest-paid safety in the NFL, but the versatile weapon's representatives may be pushing for top-cornerback money since he often plays a coverage role in the slot.

Mathieu has also indicated he won't return to the field until he's fully healthy, and has said he wants to be paid like a "top defender," an important distinction when viewing player contracts.

In 2014, Mathieu was one of the most valuable defenders in the league, racking up 89 tackles and five interceptions while playing all over the field.

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