Arizona Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu named to Sporting News’ ‘all-bargain team’

The Arizona Cardinals are only halfway through their season, but third-round draft pick Tyrann Mathieu has already given the team a lot of bang for its buck, according to Sporting News.

The rookie defensive back was recently6 named to Sporting News NFL’s “all-bargain team,” landing at No. 22 on the list. His salary of $405,000 in 2013 means the Cardinals have received a good return on their modest investment so far.

He’s wanted to shed both the Honey Badger nickname and some of his troubled past at LSU, and his immediate standout play has been huge indication of his commitment to be better all-around in the NFL. He has become so fun to watch on Sunday because he seems to be everywhere making clutch plays. His stats across the board (one sack, two interceptions, five passes defended, a forced fumble and 47 tackles) indicate that.

Mathieu found himself on the list just behind Cleveland Browns safety T.J. Ward and ahead of Miami Dolphins kicker Caleb Sturgis. Seattle’s Russell Wilson, with a salary of $526,217, was listed as No. 1 on the “all-bargain team.”