As the 2025 NFL Free Agency period approaches, the New Orleans Saints face tough financial decisions, including the future of veteran safety Tyrann Mathieu. The 32-year-old, who has played a pivotal role in the Saints’ defense, might find himself looking for a new team due to the Saints’ pressing salary cap issues.
According to Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline, the Saints are reportedly considering releasing Mathieu. He has one year left on his two-year, $13.75 million contract and could be let go as the Saints aim to manage a dire salary cap situation.
NFL Rumors: Big Changes Coming for New Orleans Saints?
Significant changes are anticipated, as the team is currently over $47 million above the salary cap, the highest in the NFL.
Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport noted that the Saints will need to make moves to alleviate their financial issues, likely resulting in some releases, cuts, and potential trades.
Mathieu’s potential release comes despite a solid performance last season, where he recorded two forced fumbles, three interceptions, seven defended passes, and 47 solo tackles. However, his production has seen a decline from his peak years. The former LSU standout earned his last All-Pro nod in 2020 with the Kansas City Chiefs, a season during which he recorded six interceptions and 48 solo tackles.
The three-time Pro Bowler’s career has spanned several teams. Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2013 with the No. 69 overall pick, Mathieu spent five seasons with the Cardinals, followed by stints with the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs, before joining the Saints.
NFL Rumors: Where Will Tyrann Mathieu Land?
Despite his lowered tackle numbers last season, Mathieu still posted a respectable passer rating of 76.4, indicating his continued ability to impact games. However, with the Saints finishing last season with a 5-12 record and facing severe cap constraints, the decision to release Mathieu would be financially driven rather than a reflection of his on-field performance.
Before the news of his potential release, there was speculation about a trade involving Mathieu to the Baltimore Ravens, a team needing to strengthen its pass defense after ranking as the league’s second-worst last season. Such a move would align with Baltimore’s need to bolster a relatively successful team in a crucial area.
Whether Mathieu remains a Saint or finds a new home, his experience and skills will be highly valued across the league.
