The NFL combine tends to be an opportunity for teams to really get inside the minds of potential prospects. Tyrann Mathieu is a prime example of just why some team’s take such a strong approach.
The Patriots are one of those teams, well known for walking a fine line during their interviews with players. And that holds true with the former LSU cornerback.
Mathieu joined the NFL Network’s NFL Live on Thursday to discuss his draft process thus far, and he pegged the Patriots as the most aggressive team in the meeting room. He pointed to intense questioning about his marijuana addiction and was asked repeatedly ‘why he wouldn’t change.’
While Bill Belichick is known for doing extensive background checks on players entering the Patriots’ system, Mathieu said the head coach wasn’t one of the two Patriots personnel to interview him. He didn’t reveal exactly who was in the room.
The Patriots have been known to ask some strange questions while interviewing prospects, including linebacker Jerod Mayo saying they asked if he had ever cheated on his girlfriend. This line of questioning shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, though. Belichick and his staff are very big on integrity and like to ensure they take guys who are dedicated and willing to finish what they start.
As for Mathieu as a potential Patriots draftee? The troubled cornerback does have some hope, saying the Patriots “seemed very interested” during the meeting.
There is no point in speculating as to Belichick’s motives or thoughts when it comes to the draft, because they’re almost always proven wrong. Â But with Mathieu’s skill set, it wouldn’t be a great surprise if the Patriots take a chance on him.
Have a question for Luke Hughes? Send it to him via Twitter at @LukeFHughes or send it here.
