Rashean Mathis
The elite ball-hawker who anchored the Jaguars' secondary for over a decade.
Rashean Mathis stands as one of the most decorated defensive backs in Jacksonville Jaguars history, anchoring the secondary during a period of remarkable team stability and success. A three-time Pro Bowl selection while wearing the teal and gold, Mathis was renowned for his exceptional ball-hawking instincts, physical coverage skills, and ability to shut down opposing number-one receivers. His tenure defined an era where the Jaguars consistently competed in the AFC South, providing a reliable safety net behind a formidable defensive line.
- Role
- Cornerback
- Team
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Pro Bowl Selections
- 3 (2007, 2011, 2012)
- All-Pro Honors
- Second Team All-Pro (2012)
- Career Interceptions with JAX
- 14
- Status
- Retired
Lore & Background
Mathis's legacy is deeply intertwined with the Jaguars' defensive identity during the late 2000s and early 2010s. He was a cornerstone of the unit that propelled the team to multiple division titles, earning the respect of peers across the league through his consistent performance. His three Pro Bowl selections remain a testament to his status as one of the premier shutdown corners in franchise history, setting a high bar for future defensive backs who would follow in his footsteps.
In Their Own Story
The humid air inside TIAA Bank Field grew thick with anticipation as the opposing quarterback dropped back, eyes scanning for an opening. Rashean Mathis didn't blink; he simply adjusted his helmet, reading the route before it was even run. With a burst of speed that silenced the crowd for a split second, he broke on the ball, snatching the pass from thin air and sprinting downfield, a teal streak of pure defensive dominance.
Reader's Guide
Rashean Mathis joined the Jaguars in 2006 and immediately established himself as a cornerstone of the defense. Over his ten seasons with the franchise, he recorded 14 interceptions, including several game-changing picks returned for touchdowns or crucial stops near the goal line. His contributions were vital during the team's playoff runs, particularly in the 2007 season where he helped secure a division title and earned his first Pro Bowl nod. Mathis was known for his physical style of play, often matching up one-on-one against elite receivers without fear or hesitation. Memorable moments include his All-Pro selection in 2012, capping off a decade of excellence that saw him become the franchise's all-time leader in interceptions at the time of his departure. His legacy endures as the standard for cornerback play in Jacksonville, remembered by fans for his leadership and clutch performances.
Did You Know?
- Mathis was selected to three consecutive Pro Bowls during his tenure with the Jaguars (2010-2012 seasons).
- He holds the franchise record for most interceptions by a cornerback until it was eventually surpassed in later years.
- Mathis was named Second Team All-Pro in 2012, highlighting his status as one of the league's best that year.