Mike Wells, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

Robert Mathis returns to Colts facility following suspension

INDIANAPOLIS -- Lost in the news of Da'Rick Rogers' arrest and release from the team and LaRon Landry's suspension was the return of Indianapolis Colts linebacker Robert Mathis on Monday.

Mathis' four-game suspension for taking performance-enhancing drugs ended, which means he's allowed to return to the facility and communicate with members of the organization again.

Mathis was sitting in his customary seat in the team meeting room Monday as they talked about Sunday's victory over the Tennessee Titans.

"I looked up there and saw his face and saw him sitting there, had to take a double take," Colts coach Chuck Pagano said. "It was awesome, awesome to have him back. It's great to have Rob back in the building. Again, his presence alone brings a ton of energy and excitement and enthusiasm to everybody."

Mathis is supposed to be preparing for season debut against the Baltimore Ravens this weekend, but a torn Achilles will keep him out the rest of the season. Now he'll be counted on to provide leadership in the locker room and on the sideline the rest of the season.

"He's got to earn his check somehow," Pagano joked. "Just like Reggie (Wayne). Reggie got enough time off to have surgery and mend up for a little bit and then he got back out here and ‘assistant coach.' So that's what his title is now. Great teammate, assistant coach, locker room patrol, he's got all kinds of assignments. I've got a whistle for him in my office ready to roll."

Hopefully Mathis can help Bjoern Werner, who is starting in his place, because the second-year player has yet to register a sack this season.

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