Could Tyrann Mathieu work his way back into LSU and subsequently Les Miles’ heart?

Tyrann Mathieu might stay an LSU Tiger after all.

ESPN's Joe Schad is reporting that Mathieu is in talks with LSU officials to sit out this season, but remain in school and work his way back onto the football team for the 2013 season.

Mathieu was dismissed from LSU Friday for a violation of team rules, which several outlets have reported as multiple failed drug tests. While Mathieu was dismissed from the team, he was not expelled, which would allow him to continue get his education and stay eligible while trying to get back into the good graces of the athletic department and coach Les Miles.

He would have to pay his own tuition if he chose to stay at LSU.

Mathieu, a true junior, does have a redshirt season available and would have two years of eligibility remaining if he returned to LSU. He did visit McNeese State on Friday and Prairie View A&M and Jackson State also have shown interest.

The Advocate also reported that Mathieu is trying to earn another chance at LSU, but that the matter is "far from settled."

As intriguing as this possibility is, it's difficult to see it becoming a reality. Mathieu knew the consequences of drug use at LSU and he continued to engage in it anyway. To be dismissed from the team, Mathieu had to have failed at least three tests. This is a substance abuse problem and he needs medical help. Can he get that? Of course. But would whoever helps him recommend him going back to the environment that put him there in the first place? Probably not.

There's that old adage, "You don't know what you go till it's gone" and that definitely applies here. But how many chances can LSU give him before the integrity of the university is questioned?

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