Tyrann Mathieu's first season as a Texan has ended, but the starting safety hopes it won't be his last.

"Obviously, I'm going to take some time, really reflect but like I said, I really want to be here," Mathieu said. "I love this team, love the locker room, love the coaching staff so hopefully the business side will take care of itself but definitely want to be here."

Mathieu, who started all 16 games, matched his career high with 89 total tackles (70 solo), a career-high 3.0 sacks, two interceptions, eight passes defensed, four quarterback hits, five tackles for loss and one fumble recovery in 2018.

"I think ultimately, any time you can stay healthy in this league, it's a plus," Mathieu said. "You have to make plays and I think I was fortunate enough this season to make a few of them so I think, obviously I had some challenges with the system, from the first year in the system so I think the more comfortable I get, the better I'll get in the system so really looking forward to that as well."

The six-year veteran signed a one-year deal as free agent after the Arizona Cardinals waived him. While he had other NFL offers, Mathieu chose Houston. Head coach Bill O'Brien selected Mathieu as one of six permanent team captains including DeAndre Hopkins, Deshaun Watson, Johnathan Joseph, Brian Peters and J.J. Watt.

"I was humbled when I came to this team," Mathieu said. "A lot of these people here embraced me, encouraged me, and really saw the best in me. I think that really allowed me to have a clear mind, really focus on football and focus on being a good teammate so I think this year really was a success."