“I would definitely get mine” says Mathieu if facing Johnson.
Much has been said about NFL prospect Tyrann Mathieu at the Combine so far, but one thing he doesn’t lack is confidence.
Perhaps said slightly tongue in cheek, even just for media purposes to raise his profile further, or perhaps he genuinely believes so, but Mathieu says he can limit Calvin Johnson to five catches.
Coined the ‘Honey Badger’, the 20-year-old made an impression with his performances on Tuesday in Indianapolis during the speed and footwork drills.
However, he took it to another level by revealing his belief that he could “get his” when up against Megatron.
Speaking to NFL.com, he said: “I feel like if I was to check somebody like a Calvin Johnson, he’ll make his plays, but I’m definitely going to get mine too. He’s going to catch his five balls, but I’m going to get my two turnovers, so we’ll be even.”
Aside from the obvious size advantage and records that Johnson has over the youngster, they are big words for a prospect who has been inactive for a year and is still trying to prove himself.
Johnson, a record breaking receiver with the Detroit Lions, is eight inches taller and 50 pounds heavier than Mathieu, not to mention the difference in speed and athleticism.
Most scouts have Mathieu being drafted as a kick returner and slot corner, but he clearly believes he could compete with the NFL’s best on the outside.
While he did run a 4.43 40-yard dash and many will admire his confidence, Mathieu is arguably not even close to such an elite level and his comments will undoubtedly be taken without much seriousness.
COMMENTS