NFL Offenses Beware, Arizona Cardinals Have a Honey Badger

Dec 3, 2011; Atlanta, GA, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Tyrann Mathieu (7) returns a punt 59 yards for a touchdown during the first half of the 2011 SEC championship game against the Georgia Bulldogs at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Josh D. Weiss-USA TODAY Sports

His name is Tyrann Mathieu.  He did not play in the 2012 season due to off-field drug issues.  He was a 2011 Heisman Trophy finalist.  After being kicked off the LSU football squad last year, “Honey Badger” as he has become known as, was selected with the 69th pick in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals Friday evening.

After being skipped over because of his troubles, the Cards took a chance on the cornerback.  Cards head coach Bruce Arians said after the selection that he would play him at free safety.  Some are concerned with his small stature at 5-9 however I have to believe the Cards know what they are doing.  They get paid to evaluate the talent.  What do we know?

Mathieu will have quite the support system in Arizona too.  One of his best friends, Cards cornerback Patrick Peterson, suggested him to the Cards.  He also has another former teammate from LSU, as the Cards selected Kevin Minter, OLB with their second round pick on Friday.

Overall, I’d give the Cards a three out of three so far in good quality picks.  Clearly the Cards know what fits for them.  I’m not sure Honey Badger could have played anywhere else and Minter is a great fit, especially with LB Daryl Washington out for the first four games of the 2013 season.  Oh and by the way, Honey Badger is a pretty good punt returner as well.  Watch out NFL.