Former Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu is hanging up his cleats, retiring from the NFL after 12 seasons.

Via Mathieu’s Instagram: 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. 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. 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. I hope I made you proud out there. This isn’t goodbye — it’s just the next chapter.

Much love, always.
Tyrann

Mathieu has spent the past three years with the New Orleans Saints, starting every game for them during that span. He was drafted in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals.

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Mathieu’s impact with the Chiefs

Mathieu signed a three–year, $42 million contract with Kansas City as a free agent ahead of the 2019 season. That year marked a new era for the Chiefs on defense, as they switched from Bob Sutton to Steve Spagnuolo at defensive coordinator. 

They wanted a play-making veteran to anchor the secondary, and that’s what they got in Mathieu. He helped change culture instantly. In his first year with K.C., Mathieu was named a First-Team All-Pro as he helped the Chiefs’ pass defense shoot up from 31st in 2018 to eighth in 2019. He was an instrumental part in helping K.C. win Super Bowl LIV. 

In his three-year stint with the Chiefs, Mathieu recorded recording 213 total tackles, 13 interceptions, 27 passes defensed, three sacks, and two defensive touchdowns. K.C. had to make a tough financial decision to part ways with Mathieu after the 2021 season, but his influence is still felt today.