Tyrann Mathieu was an all-pro last season, a first-time Pro Bowler and in the discussion for defensive player of the year.
But the safety chuckles when talking about competing with departed veteran Rashad Johnson for playing time.
“He knew everything,” Mathieu said. “For me, I was always a step behind.”
The Cardinals’ self-titled “No Fly Zone” had roster changes this offseason. Both Johnson and veteran cornerback Jerraud Powers left, to the Titans and Ravens, respectively. The team was looking to get more athletic and faster in the secondary,
and chose to move on.