The Indianapolis Colts are going to be without their one true pass-rush threat for the first four games of the 2014 season. According to various reports, Robert Mathis has been suspended for violating NFL’s substance abuse policy.
THIS JUST IN: Colts LB Robert Mathis suspended 4 games for violating NFL's policy on performance enhancing substances.
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 16, 2014
Mathis recorded a league high 19.5 sacks last season. Linebacker Jerrell Freeman finished second on the Colts with just 5.5 sacks.
This is going to be a major early-season blow for the defending AFC South champions.
Here is a statement from Mathis himself.
ROBERT MATHIS STATEMENT: "It is difficult for me to address the circumstances surrounding this suspension because… http://t.co/M4pnFgBg7c
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 16, 2014
Photo: Mark J. Rebilas, USA Today