Chiefs rumors: Tyrann Mathieu will test free agent market

Just in case you were holding onto any idea that the Kansas City Chiefs might be able to work out a last-minute deal before free agency with star safety Tyrann Mathieu, you can exhale now. All signs are pointing to Mathieu at least getting a chance to see what the open market might bring him.

NFL reporter Ian Rapoport noted from the 2022 NFL Combine in Indianapolis that Mathieu is expected to hit free agency and that other teams likely covet his experience and locker room presence, which could make it hard for the Chiefs to match or beat any offer.

“My understanding is he’s going to test the market. Now I guess there is a chance he’s back in Kansas City, but they have so many priorities. I know he’s a huge, huge part of their team. We’ll see what kind of competition they get from elsewhere.

“Still can play at a really high level, but really it’s the leadership that the Honey Badger can bring to any locker room. He’s going to be coveted and probably breaks double digits as far as his next salary.”

Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu is expected to test the free agent market.

For the last year, both Mathieu and the Chiefs have discussed wanting to work out a long-term deal at multiple points. Everyone from general manager Brett Veach, head coach Andy Reid, and even team owner Clark Hunt have publicly stated that they wanted to see Mathieu back in Kansas City for the rest of his career. Even the Landlord himself has stated several times how much he loves K.C. and would like to stay here for the rest of his playing days.

Somehow things weren’t able to work out financially despite the positive posture on both sides. Losing some salary cap space due to the coronavirus for a year really altered things for the Chiefs in a sense and other priorities at some positions also linger at an important time—namely at left tackle for Orlando Brown Jr.

It could be a painful offseason for the defense in terms of experience lost with linebacker Anthony Hitchens already released as well as the potential of the same for pass rusher Frank Clark. The Chiefs might also be priced out of re-signing Charvarius Ward at cornerback.

As for Mathieu’s ability to return, maybe it’s the best thing for him to see what the market will give him and then make a decision based on what the Chiefs come back with. If they’re able to free up space, it’s possible that free agency isn’t as robust as some expect. In fact, Rapoport’s update could hint at that with the belief that Mathieu could hit “double-digits” with his salary price.

Will the Chiefs be willing to go to $10 million or more? It’s hard to believe that Mathieu would settle for that amount given that there are already 9 safeties making that much per year before free agency even begins this year. Jamal Adams averages $17.5M and even Josh Johnson of the Browns averages over $11M per season. It’s odd to think Mathieu wouldn’t beat the latter deal.