Tyrann Mathieu is trying to make a splash in the NFL draft, and the former LSU cornerback thinks honesty is the best approach.
While meeting with team executives in advance of the draft, the player known as Honey Badger reportedly told at least one team that he had so many failed drug tests in college that he lost track of them all.
“I quit counting at 10,” Mathieu reportedly told one coach. “I really don’t know.”
The statement actually seemed to take some of the blame off of Tyrann Mathieu for his troubles in college, when he ran into many off-the-field problems. The coach said it showed that LSU failed to keep the cornerback out of trouble.
“If he flunked 10 tests before they suspended him, it shows that he got no kind of help,” the coach said.
Mathieu put on his best face for LSU’s pro day, where a number of NFL scouts, coaches, and front-office personnel were on hand to see how he performed on the field and handled himself during interviews.
“I think they know everything already [about my background],” Mathieu said. “I think they just want you to be honest with them. That was my best friend, coming into this offseason and going into this draft was, just be honest, and open.”
Back in October he was arrested along with three other LSU players on drug-related charges. The group, which included quarterback Jordan Jefferson, was arrested and charged with simple possession of marijuana. Former defensive back Derrick Bryant was also charged with intent to distribute.
Mathieu had been kicked off the LSU team in August after testing positive for drugs . The incident brought an end to a once-promising college career. Tyrann Mathieu was the recipient of the 2011 Bednarik Award for national defensive player of the year and a onetime Heisman Trophy finalist.
After the arrest Mathieu entered rehab .
Draft experts think the admission about failed drug tests won’t hurt Tyrann Mathieu too much at the NFL draft. He’s projected to be picked in the second round.
