Cardinals lose All-Pro DB Tyrann Mathieu for 3-6 weeks

The Arizona Cardinals will be without one of their best playmakers on defense for the foreseeable future. Head coach Bruce Arians announced on Monday that defensive back Tyrann Mathieu will miss three to six weeks with a shoulder injury suffered Sunday against the Panthers.

Mathieu has thrived since moving to his natural position of slot cornerback after playing free safety for most of the season. He has started all eight games for Arizona this season, recording 27 tackles, one interception and a forced fumble.

The Cardinals have safety Tyvon Branch on IR, but he’ll remain out for at least a few more weeks. He was placed on injured reserve on Oct. 4, so he’ll be eligible to be activated at the start of December.

Fortunately, the Cardinals will be on a bye this week, which will allow Mathieu an extra week to heal without missing game time.