Former LSU Tigers DB Tyrann Mathieu explains why didn’t take a shot at Deshaun Watson

Former LSU Tigers defensive back Tyrann Mathieu took to Twitter on Monday to explain his actions at the end of the Kansas City Chiefs’ playoff win against the Houston Texans.

Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Tyrann Mathieu had an opportunity to deliver a big hit on Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson near the end of the Chiefs’ win over the Texans on Sunday.

But Mathieu passed up the opportunity.

Instead of hitting Watson as the Texans quarterback let go of a pass, Mathieu slowed up. The hit would’ve been legal, but Mathieu felt there was no need.

It’s no secret that Mathieu and Watson are good friends. The honey badger spent the 2018 season with the Texans, before signing a three year deal worth $42 million with Kansas City prior to the 2019 season.

But that’s not why Mathieu took it easy on Watson in the closing minutes of the Chiefs’ win.

Mathieu knew that hitting Watson was senseless and would’ve been of no benefit to Kansas City.

Why risk hurting Watson in his final game of the season, or risk injury to himself, in a game that’s already decided?

It’s called playing smart. And that’s exactly what Mathieu did by slowing up just before contact.

Had the game been close, there’s no doubt in mind that Mathieu would’ve tried to affect the pass and hit Watson. But on a play that didn’t matter, there was no point.

There are a lot of senseless injuries in the NFL that could easily be prevented.

Good on Mathieu for taking the right approach. Hopefully more NFL players will do the same.