Third-round draft pick Tyrann Mathieu has been one of the most impressive players in Arizona Cardinals training camp, showing natural instincts at cornerback, nickel back and free safety.
Mathieu carried that momentum into his first preseason game, collecting a 12-yard sack, causing an incomplete pass with a big hit and adding a 24-yard punt return in the fourth quarter of the Cardinals' 17-0 victory over the Green Bay Packers.
The early signs suggest the playmaking ability that Mathieu displayed at LSU is translating well to the NFL. While he's not as naturally gifted as Ed Reed, Mathieu does share a similar sixth sense on the field.
The rookie saw the bulk of his playing time with Arizona's second-string defense. That will change quickly if he continues to impress in practice and preseason action. He and Patrick Peterson have the potential to lead a dynamic Cardinals secondary.
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