By Ross Jackson
Saints’ Safety Position Could Become a Bigger Need
The safety position may be one of the New Orleans Saints most underrated needs. However, that need may grow with a big move that could potentially be in the works.
Saints Considering Releasing Tyrann Mathieu
Per SportsKeeda Tony Pauline’s combine day 6 recap, the Saints are considering releasing safety Tyrann Mathieu.
The Saints are debating releasing veteran safety Tyrann Mathieu, per @TonyPauline
“I’m told that the Saints are considering releasing 32-year-old safety Iyrann Mathieu, who has one year left on his deal with the club.”
👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/HEmDTshEY1
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 2, 2025
Mathieu’s Contract Situation
The Saints gave Mathieu a one-year extension last offseason, extending his deal through the 2025 season. As a result, the three-time All-Pro safety currently carries an $11.3 million cap hit and would result in nearly $1 million in lost cap space, if released.
Potential Cap Savings
However, if the Saints designate Mathieu as a post-June 1 cut, they could save more than $6.2 million. That being said, these savings would not take effect until June 2, well after the Saints must first clear their more than $40 million overage.
Impact on Fan Base and Community
The fan base would strongly resist Mathieu’s release. The 12-year veteran is a New Orleans native that has been an active and impactful member of the community.
Mathieu’s Future Plans
During Super Bowl week, Mathieu told sports broadcaster Brooke Kirchhofer that he wanted to play at least two more years in his hometown with the hopes of winning another Super Bowl for the city.
New Coaching Staff’s Role in Decision
The new coaching staff may not show loyalty, even to the most established players. A move like that would clearly remind everyone that the NFL is a business.
Possible Alternative Moves
Pauline’s report may suggest that the Saints are considering this move only if other options don’t work out. For example, they could try restructuring Mathieu’s contract, as they did last season, before making a final decision. For now, though, that remains to be seen.
However, this will certainly be one to keep an eye on.
Mathieu’s 2024 Season Performance
Mathieu played in all 17 games during the 2024 season, despite battling various injuries throughout the year. He remained a key contributor in the secondary and tied for the team lead in interceptions.
- 62 total tackles (1 for a loss)
- 3 interceptions (tied for team lead)
- 7 passes defended
- 2 forced fumbles
- 1 fumble recovery
Check out more of our Saints coverage here.
