Cardinals coach Arians: Tyrann Mathieu could return within week

Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians said Tuesday that defensive back Tyrann Mathieu could return to practice within the next week.

Mathieu underwent knee surgery after tearing the ACL and LCL in his left knee in a December game against the St. Louis Rams.

Mathieu was placed on the physically unable to perform list in July. Arians had targeted October 1 as a possible return date for Mathieu.

More: Arizona Cardinals offseason report card

Mathieu posted a Tweet earlier Tuesday hinting at his return.

#TheR32urn
— Tyrann Mathieu (@Mathieu_Era) August 12, 2014

Mathieu, 22, recorded 65 tackles and two interceptions as a rookie in 2013.

Arians also said Tuesday that nose tackle Alameda Ta'amu, who also suffered a knee injury last season and was placed on the PUP list in July, could return within the next week.

Ta'amu recorded five tackles over 14 games and three starts last season.

The Cardinals went 10-6, missed the playoffs and finished in third place in the NFC West last season.

Bruce Arians said Tyrann Mathieu and Alameda Ta'amu are both "pretty close" to returning, maybe in the next week.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) August 12, 2014

Az Cardinals will be activating @Mathieu_Era off the PUP list very soon, possibly on Monday. "I can't wait to hit someone," Badger said.
— Bob McManaman (@azbobbymac) August 12, 2014

- Chris Johnson