Tyrann Mathieu had thought about taking part in the annual Pat's Run in the past, but injuries have gotten in the way -- including this year, after tearing his ACL late last season. But the all-pro safety will still be there bright and early Saturday morning on the campus of Arizona State University, serving as the official starter to the 4.2-mile race that honors the legacy of former Cardinals safety Pat Tillman.

"It's a tremendous honor," Mathieu said. "I was speechless when they came to me. Obviously I know about Pat and his story, how he sacrificed and what he gave for this country and what he gave for this team. For me to be the starter at his run, it means everything.

"It's a good thing for me to go out there and just be a part of it."

Even though the race is tomorrow, there is still time to sign up if you do it today. Go here for details. (I too will be running the race, my 11th Pat's Run.) Someday, Mathieu -- sporting this year's race shirt in the picture below (thanks Bruce Yeung) -- will do more than start the other athletes.

"Hopefully next year," Mathieu said, pausing to knock on the wood of his locker, "I can run in it."