How Much Money Is Tyrann Mathieu Really Worth?

“True” cornerbacks like Darrelle Revis, Patrick Peterson, Richard Sherman and Josh Norman arguably receive more adulation, but it’s possible Tyrann Mathieu of the Arizona Cardinals is the best defensive back in the NFL. 

The 24-year-old can only really be described as a hybrid safety-corner—fast enough to cover receivers one-on-one but strong enough to move into the box as an extra linebacker. That being the case, he’s one of the most unique players in the game. 

And while it’s tough to gauge uniqueness, it has to be noted that by all measures Mathieu is simply very good.

Pro Football Focus graded 206 defensive backs who played at least 25 percent of their teams’ snaps in 2015. Only one of those 206 players finished with a grade above 18.0. That was Mathieu, whose grade of 28.1 was 57 percent higher than every other cornerback or safety in the league. 

Suffice to say, the Cardinals are likely to do everything in their power to retain Mathieu long term. His rookie contract expires after the 2016 season, but NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Cards are “deep in negotiations” with the player’s camp. 

On the surface, it would all seem pretty straightforward. He’s young, talented and should only be expected to get better. Pay the man, right? Yes, and the Cardinals likely will, but negotiations could be complicated by the fact Mathieu doesn’t play one particular position, as well as the fact he’s recovering from a second torn ACL in a span of just over two years. 

What’s he worth? Let’s break it all down. 

The good

At the age of 24, Mathieu is already a two-time first-team All-Pro. Not only is he beloved by the world of analytics, but you merely need to watch the Cardinals defense to see how much of an impact he has on every game. 

In spite of his size (5’9″, 186 pounds), the LSU product can rush the passer, lay big hits on backs and receivers and make big tackles in addition to possessing the ability to cover receivers out wide and in the slot. He’s strong, fast and has unmatched football instincts. 

And even beyond that PFF grade, the numbers from 2015 back it all up.

As a pass-rusher, he ranked second among all NFL defensive backs with 11 quarterback pressures. In coverage, he had five interceptions while lined up against receivers in the slot. No other corner had more than two. And opposing quarterbacks had a passer rating of only 70.3 when throwing his way in the slot.  He finished the season with …

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