Skill-Set Summary: The unique attributes that allows Mathieu to be such a force are his instincts. He does a tremendous job of reading an offense and getting in position to make plays. Mathieu is always around the ball. The aggresive corner is a physical hitter and plays much bigger than his size. He has a real knack to strip the ball free from ball carriers.
In the college game, Mathieu has good coverage as a cornerback. He doesn't get beat deep or allow much separation. For the next level, given his size, Mathieu would be best as a hybrid safety and cornerback. He could be serve as a slot corner who covers smaller receivers. Mathieu would operate well as a roving free safety. His instincts could let him run around the field and make splash plays. Mathieu's game is similar to Baltimore Ravens All-Pro Ed Reed.
The play-making corner could also be a punt returner in the NFL.
2013 Draft Expectations: If Mathieu has another good season, he could easily enter the 2013 NFL Draft. Mathieu won't be a flawless prospect with his size and some off-the-field concerns. Despite that, he has been such a dominant defender who some team will use a quality pick on him.
Right now, Mathieu looks like a first- or a second-round pick. If he were a few inches taller and around 200 pounds, he would be a top-16 prospect. Mathieu is a pure football player who will have plenty of teams fall in love with him when he enters the draft.
