The Colts will not rush Mathis back. Their 5th round pick last year, Jonathan Newsome, led all rookies in sacks (6 sacks) and is showing play making abilities. With the addition of Trent Cole, they can allow Mathis to ease back into things.

 

They are thinking about making a run deep into the playoffs. I am sure they want Mathis to be ready for the season, but not at the risk of another injury, especially with the thought that it will be a prolonged season.

 

I have my reservations that he will be the same player, (19 sacks), however, the Colts do not need him to produce at the same level. The defense as a whole has slowly improved over the past few years. If he can continue to cause offenses to respect his abilities, and possibly draw double teams, he will have a huge impact.

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