Tyrann Mathieu isn't completely closing the door on a return to the NFL, but for now, the former Super Bowl champion and three-time first-team All-Pro remains confident in his decision after announcing his retirement Tuesday.

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Why Ex-Saints, Chiefs Cornerback Tyrann Mathieu Decided to Retire. Tyrann Mathieu caught the NFL world by surprise when he announced his retirement just before the start of New Orleans Saints' training camp earlier this week, ending his decorated career with his hometown team.

One of the Saints' best players retired with Tyrann Mathieu hanging up his cleats. What did his old coach Dennis Allen have to say about the news?

During Wednesday's press conference, Kansas City Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo commented on Tyrann Mathieu's retirement announcement | @EdEastonJr

Tyrann Mathieu had himself a great career -- three NFL All-Pro seasons, a trio of Pro Bowls, one Super Bowl ring, 36 interceptions in 12 years with four teams... and one epic nickname ( the Honey Badger! ). But in a heartfelt post on Tuesday before New Orleans Saints training camp, he announced he was calling it quits from the league.

I can feel his energy everywhere,” Sammy Watkins said of Tyrann Mathieu almost 6 years ago. It’s still true for anyone who has spent time with Mathieu.

Tyrann Mathieu's retirement drew a strong statement from his former Kansas City Chiefs teammate Patrick Mahomes.