The homecoming of former LSU star Tyrann Mathieu has electrified New Orleans Saints fans, but perhaps no place is more proud of the “Honey Badger” than St. Augustine High School in New Orleans, where Mathieu’s athletic career began. School CEO Aulston Taylor says it’s been a long time coming, but it’s great to see a Purple Knight back in the Black and Gold.
“The last time we had a Purple Knight that was playing for the Saints was Tyrone Hughes (1993-96), who ended up being in the Saints Hall of Fame,” said Taylor. “And so, it’s wonderful. It’s great that in 2022 we have Tyrann Mathieu coming back.”
Mathieu wasn’t a superstar prospect coming out of St. Aug. and was overlooked by many of the top programs in the country. Taylor says his journey and perseverance serve as an example to the young men who walk the school’s halls today.
“His story is St. Aug.,” he said. “He has been an inspiration to many. There were a lot of schools that may not have seen the greatness in what he possessed but someone; and all you need is one to take interest in you, invest in you, and show you and give you the love and let you know that you can. And someone did that.”
Community service has been a major part of Mathieu’s career, and he was nominated by the Kansas City Chiefs for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award last season, an honor that went to another former Tiger, Andrew Whitworth. Taylor believes that Mathieu will make a difference in his native New Orleans as well, just as he was taught at St. Augustine years ago.
“St. Aug is in Tyrann’s heart,” Taylor said. “It’ll always be there, it’s embedded in all of us as Purple Knights. “He was a tremendous young man when he was at St. Aug. He demonstrated grit, the know-how, confidence…this ability to do anything. We know he’s going to make a big impact in the city of New Orleans and especially for our young men.
Mathieu graduated from St. Augustine in 2010, starring in football, baseball, basketball, and track & field, before his unforgettable two-year career at LSU.
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