Cardinals' Campbell, Minter celebrate Mathieu's 5-year extension
Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tyrann Mathieu received a five-year, $62.5-million extension on Tuesday and his teammates couldn't be happier.
Mathieu was named a first-team All-Pro for the second time in his career, and recorded 89 tackles, five interceptions, a forced fumble, and a sack in 14 games, prior to tearing his ACL on Dec. 20.
Considered one of the leaders of the Cardinals' defense, Mathieu's teammates showered him with praise and congratulations.
"He's very deserving,” Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell said of Mathieu to ESPN's Josh Weinfuss. "There's a lot of guys who played very well and made big-time plays, but he's been special.
"He's been the heart and soul of our defense the last couple of years. When he's on the field, we're that much better. He's very deserving."
Keim on Mathieu's impact: "He's made me a better GM." Never used to believe in giving second chances. Now, he considers it player by player.
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) August 3, 2016
Mathieu was dismissed from LSU for violating team rules in 2012, but has been a model citizen upon joining the Cardinals in 2013. Cardinals linebacker Kevin Minter, who also played with Mathieu at LSU, raved about his upwards trajectory.
"He's really turned into a pro," Minter said. "He's obviously had his problems in college. People thought he had that stigma going in. You've seen the shift in him from that kid into that man. I have nothing but respect for that man. Like I said, it's a true blessing to get what he deserves."