Super Bowl champion Tyrann Mathieu announces retirement from NFL in social media post

Mathieu, 33, spent the last three seasons of his 12-year career with the New Orleans Saints. Mathieu was known the "Honey Badger" throughout his career.

"From my first snap in college to my final play in the NFL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing. Football gave me a purpose, discipline, and memories that will stay with me forever. But more than anything, it gave me a community."

In that sophomore season in 2011, Mathieu had 76 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, two interceptions, nine passes defended, six forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries for touchdowns. 

However, in August 2012, Mathieu was kicked off the team for continually failing drug tests for marijuana use. In October 2012, Mathieu was arrested for possession of marijuana. 

Mathieu ended up emerging as a star for the Cardinals, as he was named to an All-Pro team twice in his five years with the team. 

"To every coach who believed in me, every teammate who battled beside me, and every fan who showed up, cheered, and rode with me through the highs and lows, thank you. You gave me strength when I needed it most, and your love carried me farther than I ever imagined," Mathieu wrote. 

Mathieu played 180 games in his NFL career, and had 838 combined tackles, 11 sacks, 36 interceptions, 100 passes defended, seven forced fumbles, and eight fumble recoveries. Four of his interceptions were returned for touchdowns. 

"I hope I made you proud out there. This isn't goodbye - it's just the next chapter. Much love, always. Tyrann."