NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans safety Tyrann Mathieu, a three-time All-Pro who was known as the “Honey Badger” for the relentless play in college that made him a Heisman Trophy finalist, said on the day the Saints opened training camp Tuesday that he is retiring from the NFL after 12 seasons.

“As I hang up my cleats, I’m filled with gratitude as I close this chapter of my life and officially retire from the game that’s shaped me in every way,” Mathieu wrote in an Instagram post that was shared by the team. “This isn’t goodbye — it’s just the next chapter.”

Mathieu, 33, was raised by his grandparents in New Orleans, then became a star football player and track athlete for St. Augustine High School. He played at LSU, where his toughness — along with a blond patch in his hair — earned comparison

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