Mathis to stick in Indy: Robert Mathis agreed to a long-term deal with the Colts shortly after the team placed the franchise tag on the Pro-Bowl defensive end. The Indianapolis Star reported the terms at four years and $36 million. It includes a $15 million signing bonus. Mathis will earn $17 million in the first year and $24 million over the first two. "Still Bleedin BLUE!!!" Mathis posted on his Twitter account, according to The Sports Xchange. (Updated 03/06/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/26/12).
Fantasy Analysis
If the Colts switch to a 3-4 front - a transition that could be dicey given their defensive personnel, but one with which new coach Chuck Pagano is most familiar - Mathis isn't considered a great fit. There's concern over whether he has the ability to play as an outside linebacker, which is probably what he would end up being. That would kill his Fantasy appeal and make him more of a reserve LB because his tackle totals would be meek compared to the bulky run stuffers around the league. (Updated 03/06/2012).
05/21/2012 17:02 When comes to pass rush, left side is less left out now
The conventional wisdom had a bulkier end anchoring the left side of the defense with the pass-rush star on the right. Len Pasquarelli says Mario Williams' request to man the left side in Buffalo shows changing times.
05/17/2012 01:11 10 questions for Pete Prisco on his Top 100 NFL Players list
Any time you rank the top 100 players in the NFL, there are bound to be questions. Will Brinson has 10 of them for Pete Prisco relating to things he thinks are slightly off about the list.
Robert Mathis signed a contract extension with the Colts, meaning that he'll stick around and try to help the defense become competent again. He did well chasing the quarterback in 2011, registering 9.5 sacks and adding 43 total tackles, out-producing teammate Dwight Freeney in Fantasy leagues for the second year in a row. There could be a position switch in his future as the Colts consider a 3-4 look, and if Mathis moves to linebacker then he won't be nearly as valuable for Fantasy owners in leagues that reward tackles. If the Colts continue to classify him as a defensive lineman, he'll be useful as a No. 2 option worth a middle- to late-round pick. (Updated 4/23/12)
