Tyrann Mathieu sent shockwaves to the New Orleans Saints before the 2025 season. Just before training camp started, the safety decided to end his NFL career, informing the Saints that he would retire from the league.
But the playoffs are approaching, and some players are always willing to return for one last run. Brandon Graham returned to the Philadelphia Eagles, while Frank Ragnow also returned to the Detroit Lions, although he failed his physical. Mathieu could be the next.
Tyrann Mathieu Lists Teams He Would Consider Joining for Playoff Run
Throughout his career, Mathieu spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and New Orleans Saints. Appearing on Kay Adams’ show on Monday, he revealed that he would be open to re-joining both the Chiefs and the Texans if the opportunity came.
His best years were with the Chiefs. He played in Kansas City from 2019 to 2021 and quickly emerged as a leader on Steve Spagnuolo’s defense. He was instrumental in those three years, which culminated in a Super Bowl championship and another AFC title.
You heard it here first folks…
SB LIV Champ Tyrann Mathieu is NOT really retired@Mathieu_Era | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/tCu430GkAQ
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) December 1, 2025
Mathieu had a fantastic career. Despite his dismissal from LSU in the 2012 season, he made a name for himself for over a decade in the NFL. Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals, he was quickly established as one of the best defensive backs in the game, earning his first First-Team All-Pro selection in 2015.
Tyrann Mathieu back to the Chiefs???
HE’S ALL FOR IT.
Brett Veach on line 1.
pic.twitter.com/o0yO23qyua— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) December 1, 2025
He would go on to earn three more All-Pro berths and three Pro Bowl votes. He was also named to the 2010s All-Decade Team. His versatility as a defensive back was excellent for Spagnuolo’s defense: Mathieu would work as a free safety at some points, but he could also cover wide receivers individually as the slot corner.
The Texans are unlikely to call on his services, despite his best wishes and admiration for the group. They currently sit at No. 1 in our PFSN Defense Impact Metric after yet another fantastic display in Week 13.
But the Chiefs could be an option. They’re currently ranked No. 14 in our PFSN metric and could use some help on the back end of the defense. The Chiefs clearly miss Justin Reid, who left as a free agent in 2025; adding a veteran safety to provide depth late in the season could turn into a great deal for Kansas City.