Report: Colts LB Mathis had 10 surgeries over the last eight months
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Nov 24, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Indianapolis Colts linebacker Robert Mathis (98) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Colts 40-11. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Robert Mathis fell short of his goal of playing in the team's season-opener against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, but it wasn't for a lack of effort.
According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, Mathis, who tore his Achilles last September, need 10 surgical procedures over the last eight months to prevent infections and make make sure the injury was healing properly.
Mathis was ruled out of the Colts' Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills just prior to the game.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The 34-year-old missed all of last season after serving a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's policy against performance enhancing drugs and then tearing his Achilles while training for his return.
(h/t ESPN)