The New Orleans Saints had to replace an important part of the defense and the New Orleans community this offseason, Tyrann Mathieu. As the Saints sit 32 days away from their opening game versus the Arizona Cardinals, we reflect back on one of Mathieu's top highlights in a Saints uniform. Mathieu intercepted New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones and took it to the end zone.
It was the only time Mathieu scored as a member of the Saints, but it was the fourth pick-six of his career. It was also his final NFL touchdown. It was a genuinely terrible throw by Mac Jones, but then again, it's Mac Jones. The toughest part was the interception was getting under it before the low pass hit the ground.
Mathieu's retirement was sudden and was followed by the Saints signing Julian Blackmon. Blackmon will attempt to replace Mathieu's production between the lines, but it will be impossible to measure up to what he meant to the state and local community.
Tyrann Mathieu's first and last interception came in the Saints stadium
Mathieu was known for getting the ball. You could argue that's the biggest void he's leaving with his departure. Mathieu is the ballhawk of his generation for many kids who grew up in the early 2010's. This reputation traces back to his days at LSU, but it didn't stop when he made it to the NFL.
The safety retired with 36 interceptions. The first pick came in the third week of his rookie season. He intercepted Drew Brees in what Mathieu called his favorite interception of his career.
Mathieu's final interception came with the Saints opposed to against the Saints. Once again, it happened in the Saints home stadium. He intercepted Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. This time the fans cheered Mathieu on. Let's be honest though, there were probably some quiet cheers for his first interception as well.