Tyrann Mathieu is ready for a fresh start. He is ready to drop the nickname that has been associated with his off-the-field issues and is ready for people to just see him as a talented NFL player. His first step in that direction was getting drafted to the Arizona Cardinals. The first part of his comeback into football was complete and now Mathieu must prove that he is ready for the fresh start he is so eager to have.

Many draft experts considered Mathieu too big of a risk to take on. Drafted in the third round, the Cardinals were aware that they were either getting a mistake or one of the best players in this year's class of athletes. There could be great reward with drafting Mathieu. A former Heisman Trophy candidate, he was a start at LSU before getting kicked off the team and ultimately dismissed from the school for drug problems.

Mathieu has only spent a small amount of time on the field with the Cardinals, but already general manager Steve Keim believes the team got one of the best playmakers available.

"I don't know if I'd go out on a limb and say he could become the best corner in the draft. What I would go out on a limb and say is he could be the best playmaker in the draft. He just has such unique skill, with instincts and getting his hands on the ball. He's so opportunistic on the field," Keim said.

Arizona plans on having Mathieu as a kick returner and work in as safety. His time a LSU proves he can handle multiple defensive positions and will find the ball in air with ease. While there is no questioning Mathieu's talents, there are still questions remaining around his character.

Keim said that is not a concern of the teams. They feel they have built strong character in the locker room, not a locker room of characters. He believes that everyone deserves a second chance and Mathieu's talents make him worthy of one.

"My best friend right now is honesty. I want to be as open as possible because I'm trying to rebuild my trust," Mathieu said.