Former LSU Tigers defensive back Tyrann Mathieu has had a difficult year. He was kicked off of the LSU football team after multiple failed drug tests, only to find himself facing marijuana charges a few months later. Mathieu has decided to enter the 2013 NFL Draft, but he will have to face some tough questions during the draft season’s interview process.

It all stared on Sunday when Mathieu sat down with ESPN’s Joe Schad to discuss the impact missing an entire football season had on him.

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You could immediately see that Mathieu was emotional and felt bad about letting everyone around him and himself down. “The Honey Badger” went on to open up about his drug abuse and claims that he has stopped using marijuana all together. For the sake of his future, let’s hope he is telling the truth.

Mathieu was also asked how he sees his story ending. He responded, “like Ray Lewis.” There is no doubt that Mathieu is a very passionate young man and he seems more focused than ever at making an impact at the next level. If he puts his mind to it, Mathieu could develop into a leader.

Here is a clip from Mathieu’s emotional and passionate interview with Schad:

I know many will trash the guy for his mistakes in the past, but I am rooting for Mathieu to come full circle and turn around his life. He is unquestionably an incredible football talent and he can bring a lot to an NFL franchise if he stays clean and focused.