Mathis was selected by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 1990 NFL Draft. He spent his first four seasons with the Jets, where he established himself as a reliable receiver and a dangerous kick returner. In 1994, he signed with the Atlanta Falcons as a free agent and had the best season of his career, catching 111 passes for 1,342 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl and was a first-team All-Pro selection.
Mathis continued to be a key player for the Falcons for the next seven seasons, forming a potent receiving duo with fellow wideout Tony Martin. He helped the team reach the Super Bowl in 1998, where they lost to the Denver Broncos. Mathis finished his career with the Falcons as the team's all-time leader in receptions (573), receiving yards (7,349), and receiving touchdowns (57).
In 2001, Mathis signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played for one season before retiring. He finished his career with 689 receptions for 8,809 yards and 63 touchdowns. He also returned 186 kickoffs for 4,395 yards and two touchdowns.
Mathis was known for his precise route-running, sure hands, and ability to make tough catches in traffic. He was a versatile receiver who could line up in the slot or on the outside, and he was a threat to score every time he touched the ball. He was also a respected leader in the locker room and a mentor to younger players.
After retiring from football, Mathis became a high school football coach and worked as a color commentator for college football games. He was inducted into the University of New Mexico Athletic Hall of Honor in 2004 and the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor in 2014.
In conclusion, Terance Mathis was a talented and productive wide receiver who played in the NFL for 13 seasons. He was a key player for the New York Jets and the Atlanta Falcons, where he established himself as one of the league's top receivers. He finished his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and retired with impressive statistics and a reputation as a respected leader and mentor.
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