INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis Colts safety Sergio Brown is down to his final game to try to lock down the starting spot because LaRon Landry will return from his four-game suspension after Sunday's game at Pittsburgh.

Robert Mathis would have regained his starting outside linebacker spot following his four-game suspension had he not tore his Achilles while working out. But coach Chuck Pagano didn't say Landry would automatically start once he returns when asked about his rule on a player losing his starting position following a suspension.

"I don't know, that's a good question," Pagano said Wednesday. "I've got to go look at the manual, see what the manual says, you know? I haven't been through that yet. I guess we'll deal with that when that comes."

Pagano's answer would have likely been different if Landry's play had warranted him immediately getting his job back.

That wasn't the case and the defense has been dominant during Landry's absence. The defense 13 sacks and has forced seven turnovers in the past three games.

That's why Brown has a chance to continue to start once Landry returns. If Landry doesn't start right away, it wouldn't be surprising if he did get it back at some point later in the season.

Brown, who has primarily been a special teams player throughout his career, has 10 tackles, a sack and two passes defended this season.

"He's been steady, been where he's supposed to be, great communication back there," Pagano said. "We're firing on all cylinders. We always say it's not perfect back there but he's been really good. Again the communication, the cohesiveness between him and Mike (Adams) and the corners has been outstanding. They're doing a good job. We've just got to keep doing it, keep playing at a high level."

Do you think Landry should regain his starting position once he returns from his suspension next week?