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Colts’ Robert Mathis suspended four games for using banned substance

By Josh Sanchez

Dec 29, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Colts linebacker Robert Mathis(98) is introduced before the Jacksonville Jaguars game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Colts linebacker Robert Mathis(98) is introduced before the Jacksonville Jaguars game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Indianapolis Colts have learned that their defense took a major hit on Friday afternoon when the the NFL announced star pass rusher Robert Mathis will be out for the first quarter of the season. According to multiple media reports, Mathis has been suspended four games to start the season for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

Mathis tested positive for a banned substance, though the exact drug that triggered the positive result was not announced.

Last season, Mathis put up 19.5 sacks. Mathis, who is one of the most prominent players to ever receive a suspension for PED use, and he will be missing games against the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans. 

Indianapolis has issued a statement on Mathis’ positive drug test, which you can read below:

"Robert Mathis of the Indianapolis Colts has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2014 regular season for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Mathis will be eligible to return to the Colts’ active roster on Monday, September 29 following the team’s September 28 game against the Tennessee Titans. Mathis is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games."

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