Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport listed one player each team should consider trading. He has the New Orleans Saints shipping off a cornerstone of their defense with Tyrann Mathieu.
Davenport makes the argument that the Saints need to focus on the future, however, trading Mathieu would be a mistake for New Orleans. The veteran is key defensively but makes an even bigger impact off the field. Without him, the secondary would suffer.
Tyrann Mathieu still has gas left in the tank
The Saints would have no issue finding a suitor for the three time Pro Bowler. Davenport notes that regardless of his age, Mathieu is still capable of impacting a defense. He brings up Mathieu's prowess in pass coverage and versatility.
“It’s not difficult to imagine Mathieu generating some interest from playoff contenders. At 33, Mathieu isn’t the force he once was. But he had a highly respectable passer rating against last year of 76.4, Mathieu has logged at least three interceptions in each of the past six seasons, and he can play both safety positions and in the slot.”
Tyrann Mathieu's impact on Saints' young safeties
The Saints would lose a major piece of their defense if Mathieu was traded, especially with new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley. Versatility is a key component of Staley’s scheme. Mathieu not only can play practically anywhere on the field, but he can teach others as well. He is a great model for Jonas Sanker and Jordan Howden to look up to and learn from.
Losing Mathieu’s leadership would be a big blow to the locker room. He is a 12 year veteran who has seen a variety of schemes and opponents. He’s always looking out for the team and trying to help develop young players. Mathieu helps build the culture Kellen Moore is looking to bring in. Demario Davis, Cam Jordan and Tyrann Mathieu are the heart and soul of the Saints defense. Taking Mathieu out of that mix would be detrimental.
Trading Mathieu would hurt tremendously both on and off the field. The Saints can still look at the future with Mathieu on the roster. That's what they should do