Robert Mathis Tears Achilles

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

According to reports, Indianapolis Colts pass-rusher extraordinaire Robert Mathis has torn his achilles and is out for the year.

According to Bleacher Report’s Will Carroll it happened while working out away from the team.

It’s an unfortunate injury for the Colts and Carroll is right that many questions will be asked, but I’m not sure how much it’ll change things from a league or player standpoint, though I’d imagine teams would always want to supervise its players workouts, especially in light of such an event.

Mathis’ injury is a huge blow to the Colts defensive scheme and effectiveness as they simple don’t look like the same defense without him.  The Colts have made some improvements around the unit, but it would take a heroic effort from one of their players to match the production of last year’s sack leader.  It’s a sad injury as Robert Mathis has been a tremendous player over the course of his career.  At 33 years old, it remains to be seen if Mathis can return from this devastating injury much less be effective if indeed he does return to the Colts healthy in 2015.

The Bengals will face the Colts in Indianapolis during week seven’s action.  The team will certainly have a bit of an easier time dealing with the Colts pass rush and allowing Andy Dalton the necessary time to throw the ball.  Mathis’ injury certainly hurts the Colts, but the Bengals shouldn’t be lulled to sleep as the Colts still possess some talented defensive linemen and pass-rushers such as former divisional rival Arthur Jones and OLB Bjoern Werner.  The Bengals will still have a difficult road game at Lucas Oil Stadium, but knowing they won’t have to deal with Mathis will be a welcomed relief for Bengals’ tackles Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith.