Deadspin.com via Fox 8 in New Orleans is reporting that the former Heisman trophy finalist, with the support of his family, entered drug rehab in Houston on Monday and will remain there for the forseeable future.
The Honey Badger’s father, Tyrone Mathieu, tells FOX 8 Sports that he and Tyrann agree — until he conquers his demons, he won’t be successful at his future endeavors, wherever they unfold. The senior Mathieu says both Tyrann and his family are committed to restoring Tyrann’s health, no matter what it takes, believing football will take care of itself down the road.
Tyrann Mathieu has been at the Right Step recovery center in Houston since Monday.
Former NBA star John Lucas is now mentoring Tyrann daily. Lucas was a successful NBA standout for 14 years before a cocaine and alcohol addiction threatened to destroy him. Lucas successfully completed rehab and went on to have a signature second career as an NBA coach.
Lucas has also dedicated himself to helping other athletes recover from addiction. He’s developed programs designed specifically for the pressures and challenges athletes face. Lucas is now dedicating his efforts to guiding Tyrann through the rehabilitation process, and he will be one of the main voices who determine when Tyrann is ready to leave first step and return to New Orleans.
This decision speaks to Mathieu possibly having a bigger substance abuse problem than anyone around knew of. I applaud the young man for getting the help he needs now rather than later when he could possibly blow a ton of money and wreck his future entirely.
This step may also allow Mathieu a year to get his life in order and possibly return to LSU as a better and more mature person.
Glenn Erby is a NFL writer for FootBasket. He also owns the NFL blog, Tha Cover 2. You can read more about him over there. Follow him on Twitter @thacover2.
