LSU Dismisses Tyrann Mathieu From Team, Still Plans to Play in 2012

The LSU football program has dismissed 2011 Heisman Trophy Finalist and 2011 SEC defensive player of the year Tyrann Mathieu from the team for violating team rules. The specifics of the rules which Mathieu has violated are not yet known, but LSU released a statement regarding the situation:

“We extended ourselves personally and professionally to him,” LSU coach Les Miles said at a news conference Friday. “He has really improved and has a chance to take some steps as a person. We extended ourself to the full length of the policy.”

This is a very disappointing development for Mathieu and the Tigers, though it hurts Mathieu more than anyone else. He needs to figure his stuff out and get a good head on his shoulders so he can be playing on Sundays for a long time, like he should be. Mathieu has previously been in trouble with LSU due to violating the team’s anti-drug policy.

As for his future in football, LSU head coach Les Miles had this to say:

“I can’t imagine he would be here and not want to transfer and go play football,” Miles said. “We will help him in every way we can.”

Wherever Mathieu winds up, his situation seems oddly similar to that of former Florida cornerback and current St. Louis Rams second round pick Janoris Jenkins, who wound up playing his senior season at North Alabama and still was selected high in the 2nd round.

Mathieu should still be a top 150 pick in next year’s draft.