HOUSTON — Tyrann Mathieu looks comfortable, self-possessed, at home here, lounged in the living room of his new home in his new city. Ready to say anything.
When he first signed with the Texans back in March, he was shy. Reserved. Not quite ready to let his voice be heard. Every other week, J.J. Watt would badger him. Hey, man! Let's go! Talk to the guys! But Mathieu wasn't ready. He stayed in the shadows for a good four-and-a-half months.
Then one night in training camp, head coach Bill O'Brien asked his new safety to speak in front of the entire 90-man roster.