At least one NFL trade candidate in safety Tyrann Mathieu will likely headline the draft as a surprising send-off to a new team. According to a source, FOX Sports believes the Saints may trade the All-Pro. Especially after restructuring his contract, they could be preparing to send him to another team if a roster offers them a deal they can’t turn down. Meanwhile, it’s easy to see this happening, as the Saints are nowhere near being a postseason contender or even having a winning record this upcoming 2025 season.
Originally selected in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft, the former LSU product isn’t the same elite player that everyone remembers. The Saints’ signing of Justin Reid was a sneak peek of the direction that the team is going, and it doesn’t look like a bright one for the veteran. Mathieu is still a servicable piece in the league as a capable ball-hawk to destroy the opposing offenses’ aerial attack, so he should be gaining trade interest, especially during the draft for several contenders that are looking for depth. Even though he’s depleting, Mathieu has been completely durable the past eight seasons and doesn’t have any plans of slowing down anytime soon.
The Saints should act now, especially as they have a disastrous quarterback situation with Derek Carr heading into the reserve with a shoulder injury. Mathieu might not earn the top-notch contract, but these five teams could give him a legitimate chance to win a ring.
Breaking: NFL Trade Candidate Tyrann Mathieu That Could Headline the Draft – 5 Possible Fits
Potential Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens always know how to bring out the best in their safety unit. A great example of that is safety Ar’Darius Washington, who took the place of released Marcus Williams to increase the production of this secondary unit. Even though they have bigger issues in their pass rush, the Ravens might have to roll the dice and trade for Mathieu to bolster their Super Bowl chances and pair with veteran Marlon Humphrey as they’re getting younger.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the pass defense was one of the best for the Los Angeles Chargers. However, it wasn’t enough for the Chargers to keep guys like Kristian Fulton and Asante Samuel Jr. on their roster. Alohi Gilman’s days may be numbered after the team extended Elijah Molden, and if that’s the case, they could take a chance on Mathieu to give this unit a much-needed boost.
Dallas Cowboys
For the Cowboys, it’s hard to tell what the future holds for Donovan Wilson. After extending Markquese Bell, it looks like Dallas might be moving away from Wilson. Meanwhile, Malik Hooker is entering the final year of his deal and the Cowboys should take this opportunity to increase the safety unit with the addition of Mathieu to give some breathing room for their cornerbacks.
Carolina Panthers
While the Panthers extended both Mike Jackson and Jaycee Horn to contracts, they could use another safety. They did well signing Tre’Von Moehrig, but the Panthers could go the extra mile to rely on their defense for a postseason push. Mathieu is the perfect leader to push this Carolina defense to the fullest.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders are in the best position in the league. Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin are building something special on offense, but the same can’t be said about their defense. Quan Martin had a few bright spots last season, but he could use someone like Mathieu as a dependable mentor.
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