Tyrann Mathieu retires from NFL: A look back at his career and legacy

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Tyrann Mathieu Shocks Fans with Retirement Announcement
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Tyrann Mathieu's Career Highlights and Legacy
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Just before the Saints kicked off their first training camp practice, New Orleans Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu dropped a shocking news, that he is retiring from football on his social media Instagram account.The 33-year-old's decision came suddenly and was surprising after he was seen at the team's recent minicamp, as per an ESPN report.He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, he wrote that, "As I hang up my cleats, I'm filled with gratitude as I close this chapter of my life and officially retire from the game that's shaped me in every way," as per his social media post.Mathieu shared in his post that, "From my first snap in college to my final play in the NFL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing. Football gave me purpose, discipline, and memories that will stay with me forever. But more than anything, it gave me a community," as per the Instagram post.He also said in his post that, "To every coach who believed in me, every teammate who battled beside me, and every fan who showed up, cheered, and rode with me through the highs and lows, thank you. You gave me strength when I needed it most, and your love carried me farther than I ever imagined." as quoted in his post.ALSO READ: Ozzy Osbourne's memoir 'Last Rites' to reveal his untold story that he penned before his death Mathieu retired after 12 seasons in the NFL and three seasons in New Orleans, according to the ESPN report. The former professional football safety is Louisiana native, who has earned the nickname "Honey Badger" while playing at LSU, and is popularly known for his ability to force turnovers, as per the ESPN report. He had 7 forced fumbles, 8 fumble recoveries, 11 sacks and 36 interceptions in his NFL career, as reported by ESPN.He was a third-round draft pick for the Cardinals in 2013, who spent the first five seasons of his career there, according to the report. Then he signed with the Houston Texans and he also played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2019 to 2021 and was part of Kansas City's Super Bowl LIV-winning team, as reported by ESPN.The ex-player was also named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, he won the Chuck Bednarik Award and was a Heisman Trophy finalist as a sophomore, as per the report.Mathieu, has revealed that he hopes to get into coaching one day, has maintained a close relationship with LSU even after his dismissal and donated $1 million to the school in 2016, according to the ESPN report.ALSO READ: Ozzy Osbourne Family: What we know about the Black Sabbath lead vocalist's wife Sharon and children Aimee, Kelly, Jack, Jessica, Louis, Elliot His retirement announcement instantly received well wishes from former teammates, including former LSU and Arizona Cardinals teammate Patrick Peterson, as per the report.Peterson, who also retired this year, commented, "What a journey it has been for the both of us!", and added, "For us to have that same mentality, hunger, and drive to be the best version of ourselves was a treat in itself. Enjoy retirement love ya! #jobwelldonebabybro," as quoted by ESPN.Saints general Manager Mickey Loomis said that Mathieu's decision to retire came about recently, and that he didn't try to talk him out of it, saying, "He's a legendary Louisiana player, legendary NFL player. I really appreciate his time with us. He was fantastic," and added, "I don't have enough good things to say about him. ... I just wish him all the best," as quoted in the report.He made three Pro Bowls, was named first-team All-Pro three times, and won a Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs, as per the ESPN report.He played 12 seasons in the NFL, including three with the New Orleans Saints, as per the ESPN report.