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After missing two games in November, Mathieu returned to play against the Falcons. Unfortunately, he further aggravated his shoulder, and has been out since.
To make matters worse, according to team writer Darren Urban, surgery may be on the table for the star Safety.
Arians said S Tyrann Mathieu (shoulder) is "contemplating surgery, but I don't think that'll be necessary."
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) December 9, 2016
Mathieu is in his fourth season with the team, yet this isn't his first major injury. In 2013 (his rookie season) he tore his ACL and MCL; two years later it was his other ACL that suffered. While he is young and very, very talented, he has missed considerable time.
Tyvon Branch will continue to fill in for Mathieu. Branch, who has also missed games this season due to a groin injury, has played decently so far, although he did struggle last week against Kirk Cousins and Co.
The Cardinals are a much better team when Mathieu is out on the field. And given the playoff push they are trying to make happen, hopefully surgery is not necessary. It would be great to see him back on the field soon.