Handing Out Superlatives and Awards For The 2013 Arizona Cardinals

Rookie of the Year: FS Tyrann Mathieu

Tyrann Mathieu was a risk because of his off-field issues. He was dismissed from LSU and didn’t play any college football a year before he was drafted. The Cardinals took him, and he was spectacular until he tore his ACL. He made a name for himself in training camp for his hustle, instincts. and dynamic playmaking ability. As a rookie, he played safety and nickel corner for the Cards and excelled at both. He had a share of great plays, including a strip to save a touchdown against the Rams in Week 1 and a crucial stop on fourth down to seal a Week 2 win for the Cardinals. He had 68 tackles, one sack, nine passes defensed, two interceptions and a forced fumble.

Hopefully he makes a full recovery and continue to be the inspiring story about a guy who turned his life around and became a successful athlete.