Phidarian Mathis gives thanks to Alabama on being named an permanent caption for 2021 season

Phidarian Mathis was selected as one of the permanent team captains for the Alabama Crimson Tide last season, and in his introductory press conference with the Washington Commanders, the rookie defensive lineman was asked about the honor from his time in college.

“That meant a lot because I know what type of work I put in,” Mathis said. “For me, and also the work I put in for my brothers beside me. That was picked by my team brothers, not by the coaches, so I just want to thank those guys for even honoring me to be a team leader.”

Phidarian Mathis believes his passion for the game and dedication to his teammates played a factor in getting named a permanent captain for he Tide last season.

“Because they know and I know I love football so much, and I love them as brothers,” the new Washington Commanders big man added. “And I think that’s one of the reasons why they chose me as one of the team captains.”

Phidarian Mathis explains increased sack production in 2021

Following a breakout season at Alabama, Mathis was selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. Mathis erupted onto the scene last season, leading to him being selected so early. 

Following his selection by the Commanders, Phidarian Mathis broke down what went into his breakout season at Alabama. To him, he just stepped up when he was given an opportunity, and the rest is history.

“It was just motivation, man,” Mathis said. “For me, I knew what time it was, I knew it was time for me to step up. I finally had my chance to be a starter, I found out I had my chance not to sit behind so many guys. There were so many guys that came through that I had to sit behind, I had to wait my turn. So it was finally my turn and I think I stepped up when it was time to step up and when they needed it the most.”

Phidarian Mathis played a key role on Alabama’s defensive line throughout his four-year collegiate career, though most of that came as a backup. As a freshman in 2018, he totaled 18 tackles and one fumble recovery. In 2019, Mathis had 27 tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. As a junior, he totaled 31 tackles, tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, three passes defended and one forced fumble. 

When Mathis was given a larger role last season, he ran with it. In 14 games as a senior, he totaled 53 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, two passes defended, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.