Arizona Cardinals Tyrann Mathieu Wins Rookie Of Month

Oct 27, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) is tackled by Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drew Davis (19) after intercepting a pass during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

When he was selected in the third round of the the 2013 NFL Draft, many people, including Arizona Cardinals fans, felt the Cards reached too high for safety Tyrann Mathieu given his recent off the field issues.  However those close to him, such as cornerback Patrick Peterson knew he was ready to put all of that behind him.  So far, so good.  Mathieu was named NFL Rookie of the Month for October on Thursday.

Mathieu is only one of six NFL players with at least two interceptions, a sack, and a force fumble so far this season.  He has been every bit of the player I expected him to be.  Now, I wasn’t sure he’d be where he is at now this quickly but I’ll take it.  So far he has managed to keep himself out of trouble.  Mathieu had 21 tackles and an interception in four October games.

Now he must continue to perform.  If he settles now, then the award means nothing.  He is proving a lot of doubters wrong and making his supporters look pretty darn smart right now.  He currently ranks second on the defense with 49 tackles.  He is the third Cards rookie to win the award.  Simeon Rice and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie also won the award previously.