Tyrann Mathieu took some criticism for pulling up on Houston Texans quarterback DeShaun Watson in the fourth quarter of the Kansas City Chiefs’ 51-31 victory over the Texans in the divisional round of the playoffs.

Mathieu, who plays until the whistle, is one of the best hybrid defensive backs in the NFL due to his playing style.

Mathieu isn’t one to headhunt on every play, which he demonstrated by letting up on Watson when he threw a pass late in the fourth quarter.

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On a blitz, Mathieu had a clear shot to hit Watson, but decided to pull up as the Texans quarterback was releasing the ball. Mathieu could have smashed Watson into the turf if he wanted to.

The play was caught on social media, forcing Mathieu to explain himself on Twitter.

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