Mathieu would welcome opportunity to play for hometown Saints

Tyrann Mathieu would love to return to his home state of Louisiana.

After the New Orleans Saints hosted the visiting free-agent safety Tuesday, Mathieu spoke about what signing with his hometown team would mean to him.

"Any time I get to play in front of family and friends, it obviously gives me more energy," Mathieu said, according to Wilson Alexander of The Advocate. "It would be a great opportunity if that was to come."

He added: "I have a lot of respect for (owner) Mrs. (Gayle) Benson and the kinds of things she does throughout the community. It's a team I grew up watching."

Mathieu played his high school ball in New Orleans before starring for LSU in college. But aside from his connections to the city, the three-time All-Pro said he'd be excited to join a defense as good as the Saints'.

"Any time I see the Saints play defense, I always tap myself on the shoulder and say, 'Hey, I could probably roll with those guys,'" Mathieu said.

Additionally, the nine-year veteran, who was a key contributor on the Chiefs' Super Bowl LIV-winning squad, said he's focused on finding a situation where his family is comfortable and where he can compete for another championship.

"This time around, it's not about being the highest-paid safety," Mathieu said.

In addition to the Chiefs, Mathieu has also played for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. He tallied 76 tackles, six passes defended, and three interceptions last season with Kansas City.

The Saints are in search of a veteran presence in the secondary after Marcus Williams signed with the Baltimore Ravens and Malcolm Jenkins announced his retirement. However, New Orleans did add Marcus Maye earlier this offseason.

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