Tyrann Mathieu, the celebrated NFL safety known as the "Honey Badger," has navigated a public life marked by intense professional scrutiny and personal growth. His romantic journey, while at times complex, has ultimately centered on a deep and enduring commitment to his long-term partner, Sydni Paige Russell, alongside the responsibilities of fatherhood.
Before his prominent relationship with Russell, Mathieu's early romantic life included a significant connection with Megan Edwards, a hairstylist from New Orleans. Their relationship spanned several years, reportedly from December 2006 through September 2012. This period culminated in the birth of their son, Noah Thomas, in June 2013.
The birth of Noah Thomas led to a public child support dispute between Mathieu and Edwards. According to reports from October 2014, Edwards filed a lawsuit seeking child support, stating she had a "monogamous romantic relationship" with Mathieu. Mathieu's attorney initially sought to nullify the judgment, arguing he was not properly served, but the court ordered Edwards to deposit funds into an educational trust for their son. Edwards publicly stated her openness to Mathieu having a relationship with their son, emphasizing visitation whenever he was in New Orleans.
Mathieu's most significant and enduring romantic relationship began during his college years at Louisiana State University (LSU) with Sydni Paige Russell. They reportedly met and started dating in 2011, forming a strong bond that would carry them through Mathieu's challenging early career and subsequent NFL success. Russell, a journalism and mass communication student, also had ties to the sports world as a former NBA cheerleader for the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans).
As Mathieu transitioned from college to the NFL, being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2013, Russell moved with him, continuing her studies. Their relationship deepened, and they welcomed their first child together, a son named Tyrann Mathieu Jr., in November 2014. This marked a significant milestone in their shared life, publicly showcasing their growing family.
In May 2019, Mathieu proposed to Russell in a public and grand gesture, solidifying their long-standing commitment. The engagement, featuring a stunning diamond ring reportedly valued at $250,000, was widely celebrated by fans and the media. This proposal came after years of public support from Russell, who was often seen by his side throughout his career with the Cardinals, Houston Texans, and Kansas City Chiefs.
Later that same year, in November 2019, the couple expanded their family further with the arrival of their daughter, Mila Mathieu. The birth of Mila reinforced their family unit, with both children frequently featured on their parents' social media, highlighting their close-knit bond. Russell, whose stepfather is former NFL coach Todd Bowles, has maintained a strong presence in Mathieu's life, often sharing glimpses of their family life.
Despite their long engagement and the public's anticipation, Tyrann Mathieu and Sydni Paige Russell have not yet formally tied the knot. However, Mathieu has publicly referred to Russell as his "wife," indicating the depth of their commitment and the marital nature of their relationship in his eyes. Their journey together has been characterized by mutual support, navigating the demands of an NFL career, and raising their children.
Their relationship has been a testament to resilience, with Russell consistently supporting Mathieu through his professional highs and personal challenges. They often share family moments on social media, presenting a united front. While specific wedding plans have not been publicly announced, their continued partnership and shared family life underscore a profound and lasting connection that has evolved from college sweethearts to a committed, engaged couple raising a family.