Tyrann Mathieu: Former LSU Star Will Reportedly Stay in Drug Rehab

Tyrann Mathieu won't be playing football in the 2012-13 season, as the former LSU star is reportedly slated to remain in rehab. 

According to Fox 8's Jen Hale, Mathieu and his family have decided that "Tyrann will remain at a drug rehab center in Houston for the near future, instead of returning to classes at LSU or any other college - in order to play football this fall."

Mathieu is also under the wing of a former athlete who knows something about overcoming substance issues and going on to achieve success at the professional level. According to the Fox 8 affiliate:

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Former NBA star John Lucas is now mentoring Tyrann daily. Lucas was a successful NBA standout for 14 years before a cocaine and alcohol addiction threatened to destroy him.

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USA Today's Glenn Guilbeau reported that a source said Mathieu was dismissed from LSU "for repeated positive drug tests revealing marijuana over the last year."

The Bednarik Award winner—as best defensive player in college—and Heisman hopeful has encountered a few bumps in the road, and it's clear that Mathieu and his family are intent on taking care of this problem before making any decisions on his football future.

CBS Sports' Bruce Feldman had previously reported that the "Honey Badger" was seeking a transfer to McNeese State. Now, it's unclear where he'll end up in the fall.

Mathieu is a player with unlimited potential who played a huge role in LSU's ferocious defense last season. Mathieu still has an opportunity to have a bright football career at the next level, but ridding himself of the problems that will undoubtedly concern prospective NFL teams will be key.

For now, Mathieu's focus appears to be far away from the football field, which should pay dividends going forward.