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NFL Rankings: Top 10 hybrid players

By Henry McKenna

Feb 2, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) during Super Bowl XLVIII against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) during Super Bowl XLVIII against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 17, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Ace Sanders (18) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) during the second half of the game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 17, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Ace Sanders (18) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) during the second half of the game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Arizona Cardinals’ Tyrann Mathieu

Mathieu is an excellent defensive back. He lines up at safety for the Cardinals but could play anywhere on the field — and often does. He’s a corner that can play free safety. The 5-foot-9 athlete, formerly know as the Honey Badger, flies all over the field and delivers hard hits. He can read the quarterback and nab interceptions, too. Then he’ll settle down in nickel coverage and take care of shifty receivers like Wes Welker .

The former third overall draft pick is a stud. He fell in the draft due to off-field issues but proved to be an athletic gold mine. And he has since eradicated his off the field issues. If it weren’t for Patrick Peterson, he’d be the punt returner, too. His coach has high praise for the youngster.

“He meant a lot to us because of his flexibility and his positions,” coach Bruce Arians said back in Dec. 2013. “It will take two guys to take his place.”

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