ARIZONA CARDINALS

Tyrann Mathieu reminds Carson Palmer of Troy Polamalu

Jun 10, 2013, 7:19 PM | Updated: 7:56 pm

New Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer has faced the Pittsburgh Steelers 13 times in his career, so it’s safe to say he knows a thing or two about their defense.

As such, he likely knows quite a bit about Troy Polamalu, a seven-time Pro Bowl safety who has been terrorizing offenses since 2003.

So, when Palmer compares someone to the future Hall of Famer, it’s worth taking notice. And, when that person is rookie Tyrann Mathieu, well, waves are made.

According to SportsIllustrated.com’s Peter King, who was in town last week to check out the team, Palmer is impressed with what he’s seen from Mathieu.

“He reminds of Troy Polamalu with his closing speed,” said Palmer. “He might not be the fastest guy out there, but he can change directions and get to the ball really fast, like Troy.”

Sounds good, right?

That Mathieu has impressed as he transitions from cornerback to safety is a good sign. Having essentially not played in a year due to being dismissed from the LSU team with drug issues, he is trying to rebuild his image and get his career back on track.

And, if the early accounts are any indication, Mathieu is well on his way.

Presented By
Western Governors University

Arizona Cardinals

Monti Ossenfort looks on during the 2023 NFL Draft Combine...

Tyler Drake

Daniel Jeremiah: NFL Draft is Cardinals’ moment to set up franchise for years to come

The 2024 NFL Draft marks a big set-your-franchise-up situation for the Arizona Cardinals, says NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah.

35 minutes ago

Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill speaks at a press conference...

Tyler Drake

Michael Bidwill: Cardinals ‘aligned on getting this thing right’ in 2024

Michael Bidwill believes the Cardinals aren't that far off from really turning things around under Jonathan Gannon and Monti Ossenfort.

1 day ago

Marvin Harrison Jr....

Nick Borgia

Marvin Harrison Jr. remains Cardinals top pick in latest ESPN mock

With the 2024 NFL draft just around the corner, ESPN's latest mock draft details what could be in store for the Cardinals' first six picks.

2 days ago

Rome Odunze...

Kevin Zimmerman

Peter Schrager’s NFL mock draft has a surprising Cardinals trade-down with Giants

Peter Schrager believes the New York Giants could trade with the Arizona Cardinals, who move down to the No. 6 pick to select Rome Odunze.

2 days ago

Trey McBride works out...

Tyler Drake

Tweaked process, same message: Cardinals begin strength and conditioning program

Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon isn't the biggest believer in picking up where you left off, especially on a year-to-year basis.

3 days ago

Rome Odunze high fives a fan...

Tyler Drake

Budda Baker backs Rome Odunze, Marvin Harrison Jr. as top WR prospects this NFL Draft

If Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort was waiting for Budda Baker's thoughts on the top wide receiver prospect this NFL Draft, he's got them.

3 days ago

Tyrann Mathieu reminds Carson Palmer of Troy Polamalu