Bad news got worse for Tyrann Mathieu.
The dynamic defensive back indeed suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during the Arizona Cardinals' 30-10 victory over the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, a source informed of the injury told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport.
Tests also confirmed that he tore his LCL, making the injury more significant because Mathieu has to wait for the injury to heal a bit before he can undergo surgery, Rapoport reported Monday.
Arians later confirmed the ACL and LCL injuries and added that Mathieu's rehab "will be a long one." The coach didn't expect to have Mathieu back by training camp.
Mathieu was injured in the third quarter after getting his left leg tangled while returning a kickoff.
The news is devastating for Mathieu, who was having a fantastic season and had vaulted himself into the lead for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
Arians said he still believes Mathieu has earned consideration for the award, saying, "It'll take two guys to take his place."
The Cardinals remain in the hunt for a playoff spot, but their defense took a huge hit Sunday.
*The latest "Around The League Podcast" recapped all the Week 14 games. *
